Researchers are exploring whether better dental hygiene could reduce the risk of developing rheumatoid arthritis.
Scientists have identified a bacteria, often found in the mouth, that can trigger this painful joint condition.
A study from the University of Leeds found that people who developed arthritis were more likely to have high levels of this bacteria in their gut in the months before diagnosis.
Experts say the findings could help doctors prevent arthritis from developing in the first place. This might involve prescribing thorough tooth brushing or a probiotic (a daily tablet containing “good” bacteria).
Rheumatoid arthritis, which affects more than half a million people in the UK, is a chronic disease that causes swelling, pain and stiffness in the joints because the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy cells in the body.
While there are several effective treatments to control the symptoms of arthritis, there is no cure.
In the study, researchers followed 19 patients who were considered to be at high risk of developing the condition.
Scientists have identified a bacteria, often found in the mouth, that can trigger this painful joint condition. In the photo: archive photo
A study from the University of Leeds found that people who developed arthritis were more likely to have high levels of this bacteria in their gut in the months before diagnosis. In the photo: archive photo
Only five were diagnosed during the study, but those who developed the condition were significantly more likely to have substantial levels of prevotella in their gut, a bacteria usually found in the mouth.
Research suggests that many cases of arthritis are due to a “leaky gut” theory, in which harmful bacteria leave the stomach and enter the bloodstream, activating the immune system.
Experts will now explore ways to reduce the amount of prevotella in these at-risk patients. Solutions include eating a high-fiber diet, which research shows reduces bacteria levels.
“As there is no known cure, at-risk patients often feel a sense of hopelessness, or even avoid being tested,” says Dr. Christopher Rooney, lead researcher on the study at the University of Leeds. “This new research could give us a great opportunity to act sooner to prevent rheumatoid arthritis.”