Gum Disease May Play Role In Alzheimer’s Development, Researchers Suggest

The Telegraph (UK) reports that “gum disease may play a pivotal role in the development of Alzheimer’s disease, scientists believe.” According to the article, “Researchers said they now had ‘solid evidence’ that the bacteria which causes periodontitis produces an enzyme which destroys neurons leading to memory loss.” The article says that …

No Evidence No-Calorie Sweeteners Have Health Benefits, Improve Weight Loss

HealthDay reports that in a new study published in the BMJ, researchers assessing the potential benefits of no-calorie sweeteners concluded there is “very weak evidence” the sugar alternatives may improve health or assist in weight loss. Researchers said, “Most health outcomes did not seem to have differences between the non-sugar sweetener exposed …

Teen Develops Hypersensitivity Pneumonitis Three Weeks After Beginning E-Cigarette Use

CNN reported that a case study published in the journal Pediatrics examined an 18-year-old Pennsylvanian woman who was diagnosed with hypersensitivity pneumonitis, “an inflammation of the lungs due to an allergic reaction to chemicals or dust,” three weeks after beginning to use an e-cigarette. The woman suffered respiratory failure, was placed on a …

Taxes On Sugary Drinks May Decrease Consumption, Studies Suggest

NPR reported that research suggests taxes on sugar-sweetened drinks “do work – although sometimes not as well as hoped.” In a study published by the American Journal of Public Health, researchers asked people in Berkeley, California questions about sugar-sweetened drink consumption every year since the city’s “soda tax went into effect …

“Cellular Messengers In Saliva” May Regulate Oral Bacteria Growth

The UCLA Newsroom states a new study led by UCLA researchers “provides clear evidence that cellular messengers in saliva may be able to regulate the growth of oral bacteria responsible for diseases, such as periodontitis and meningitis.” The article adds the study suggests that “a body’s cellular messengers play an important …

Vaping and oral health: It’s worse than you think

The use of electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes) represents a significant and increasing proportion of tobacco consumption, posing a tremendous threat to oral health. This article will look at the following aspects of e-cigarettes: Overview of e-cigarette usage Statistics on the current prevalence of e-cigarettes Three chemicals contained in e-cigarettes and their effects …

Dental Care Before Major Cancer Surgery May Reduce Risk Of Complications, Study Suggests

Reuters (8/28, Crist) reports a study published in the British Journal of Surgery found that patients who are undergoing “major cancer surgery might reduce their risk of complications by seeing a dentist beforehand.” The researchers discovered that patients “who visited a dentist were slightly less likely to have post-surgery pneumonia …