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High levels of germs commonly found in the mouth could be linked to an increased risk of heart attack, a new study suggests.

Scientists studied levels of bacteria in the mouths of people who had suffered a heart attack and compared them with healthy individuals.

It was discovered that two particular species of pathogen had a significant association with an increased risk of heart attack.

The research, conducted at the University of Buffalo, is the latest in a number of studies to connect organisms that cause gum disease with the development of heart disease.

Researcher Dr Oelisoa Andriankaja, who conducted the study, said: "The message here is that even though some specific periodontal pathogens have been found to be associated with an increased risk of coronary heart disease, the total bacterial pathogenic burden is more important than the type of bacteria."

This may be important news for people seeking heart conditions life insurance, as it suggests that improving oral health could reduce your risk of a heart attack.

A previous study, outlined in the Journal of Perindontology, showed that 91 per cent of patients who suffered a heart attack had periodontitis (gum disease), compared with 61 per cent of healthy individuals.

The Insurance Helpline specialises in obtaining cover for people living with heart conditions.

This entry was posted on Wednesday, April 1st, 2009 at 2:01 pm and is filed under Heart, Life Insurance.