Exploring the Relationship Between Spirometry-Defined COPD and Periodontitis Among US Adults

Background: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and periodontitis are both chronic inflammatory conditions that share common risk factors and biological pathways. This cross-sectional study analyzed the relationship between spirometry-defined COPD and periodontitis among US adults using data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES). Methods: Data from the 2009–2012 NHANES cycles were used. The study sample included 4337 adults aged 30–79 years. COPD was defined as a post-bronchodilator FEV1/FVC ratio below the lower limit of normal. Periodontitis was measured by clinical examination using the 2012 case definitions for population-based surveillance of periodontitis by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the American Academy of Periodontology (AAP). Multiple weighted logistic regression was used to analyze the relationship between periodontitis and COPD, controlling for diabetes, smoking, income, education, sex, race, and age. Results: Adults with COPD had significantly higher adjusted odds of periodontitis (aOR = 1.99, 95% CI: 1.16–3.41, p = 0.015). Diabetes was also associated with higher odds (aOR = 1.65, 95% CI: 1.15–2.36, p < 0.01). Current or former smokers, those with lower income, and those aged ≥ 65 years had higher odds of periodontitis, whereas being female and having at least some college education were associated with lower odds. Black, Hispanic, and other race/ethnicity adults had higher odds than non-Hispanic White adults. Conclusions: Spirometry-defined COPD was associated with periodontitis among US adults. These findings support the need for more integrated approaches to managing chronic respiratory disease and dental care, especially in at-risk populations.