Tokyo, September 17 (QNA) - A 10-year observational study conducted by researchers at Kyushu University in Japan revealed that indicators of worsening gum health, such as gum bleeding, deep periodontal pockets, and gum recession, are linked to an increased risk of dementia and Alzheimer's disease among older adults.

Published in the Journal of Clinical Periodontology, the study tracked 1,396 participants aged 60 and older over a decade. 

During the follow-up period, 267 individuals developed dementia, including 194 cases of Alzheimer's disease.

Researchers found that participants with the highest levels of gum bleeding had a 56 percent higher risk of developing all-cause dementia and a 61 percent higher risk of Alzheimer's disease compared to those with the lowest levels. 

The study also associated deeper periodontal pockets with a 72 percent increase in overall dementia risk, while severe gum recession was linked to a 59 percent increase. 

Researchers noted that persistent oral inflammation might contribute to brain health deterioration, though further research is required to establish direct causality. (QNA)