We all expect to experience a few aches and creaks as we get older, but rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a whole other ballgame. This autoimmune condition goes well beyond minor discomfort, as inflammation along the joints makes the simplest tasks almost unendurable. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 1.5 million adults were living with RA as of 2007, and that number will likely continue to increase as the population ages. Previously on this blog, we've covered the role that curcumin supplements may play in countering this painful condition, and today we'll review another fascinating finding.
In September 2013, the online scientific journal PLOS Pathogens published a study on gum disease and RA. Previous research has revealed a correlation between these conditions, and scientists sought to examine the nature of this connection.
"Rheumatoid arthritis and periodontitis are two prevalent chronic inflammatory diseases in humans and are associated with each other both clinically and epidemiologically," the study abstract states.
Using an animal model, the scientists found that the presence of a pathogen linked to gum disease, Porphyromonas gingivalis, could increase the severity of RA, as shown through accelerated bone and cartilage breakdown. It may also be responsible for an earlier onset of the bone-based disease.
There is no cure for RA, but by better understanding its risk factors, it may may be possible to keep its symptoms in check. Click to read information about our bone support and oral health products, as well as Nutrivene Longvida Curcumin.