A lower maximum bite force is a risk factor for developing cardiovascular disease: the Suita study

Area of Science:

• Oral Health
• Cardiovascular Health
• Epidemiology

Background:

• Masticatory dysfunction is hypothesized to contribute to cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk via poor nutrition.
• Maximum bite force (MBF) serves as a quantifiable indicator of masticatory function.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the association between baseline maximum bite force (MBF) and the incidence of cardiovascular disease (CVD).
• To determine if masticatory function, measured by MBF, is a predictive factor for developing stroke and coronary heart disease.

Main Methods:

• A cohort of 1547 participants from the Suita study without prior CVD history were examined.
• Baseline MBF was measured, followed by a mean 3.5-year follow-up for CVD incidence.
• Cox proportional hazards models were used for multivariate analysis of MBF and CVD development.

Main Results:

• A significant trend between baseline MBF and CVD development was observed in the combined male and female cohort.
• Analysis by sex revealed a significant association between lower MBF and increased CVD risk specifically in women.
• 32 incident CVD cases (stroke and coronary heart disease) were recorded during the follow-up period.

Conclusions:

• Low maximum bite force (MBF) may represent a novel risk factor for cardiovascular disease (CVD).
• The association between reduced masticatory function and CVD appears more pronounced in women.
• Objective masticatory function assessment, like MBF, warrants consideration in CVD risk evaluation.