Dental and digestive comorbidities in the military personnel authorized to access toxic chemicals

Relevance . Digestive diseases (ICD-10, Chapter XI) consistently rank among the top five causes of temporary disability in the adult population of Russia. Publications report dental pathologies to be a major risk factor in leading to GI diseases. Healthy jaw and teeth are critical for the digestive system, with dental disorders contributing to the onset, as well as progression of digestive diseases through various pathogenetic mechanisms. Lifetime occupational health is particularly relevant for individuals exposed to various occupational hazards at work, associated with more stringent health demands. Objective . The study objective is to collect, summarize and analyze data regarding the prevalence of most common jaw and teeth diseases and pathological conditions among military contractors providing services at toxic chemical storage and destruction facilities. Another objective is to assess the co-occurrence rate for dental and digestive diseases. Methodology . The study examined 330 military contractors aged 24 to 50 years and authorized to operate toxic chemicals, including 315 men (95.5%) and 15 women (4.5%). We analyzed data from medical health records (Health Record of Military Personnel, document form no. 2) and annual medical examination results required to access toxic chemical facilities. Specific focus was made on the correlation between the GI and dental disease prevalence to highlight the demand for comprehensive systemic screening, treatment and prevention of teeth and jaw diseases, as well as digestive disorders in comorbid patients. Interdisciplinary continuity of care is essential in this respect. Results and discussion . The study results showed poor dental health, with high prevalence of co-occurring dental and GI pathology in the examined cohort. Among service members authorized to access toxic chemicals, digestive diseases were most frequently associated with partial secondary adentia, teeth and jaw abnormalities, as well as various types of advanced caries. The study allowed to outline the key factors affecting dental health in the study cohort. Conclusion . High prevalence of dental and GI comorbidity in the study cohort confirms the direct pathogenetic impact of dentoalveolar disorders on digestive disease development and progression. Our findings highlight the need for a comprehensive and systematic screening, treatment and prevention to mitigate the prevalence of digestive diseases among the Russian Armed Forces personnel exposed to toxic chemicals. The approach should include proactive treatment and preventive measures targeting teeth and jaw pathology.