Association between oral health status and peptic ulcer disease: evidence from a nationally representative survey in Hungary.

BACKGROUND

Peptic ulcer disease (PUD) remains a significant public health issue, with established risk factors including Helicobacter pylori infection, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID) use, and lifestyle factors. Emerging evidence suggests a link between poor oral health and systemic diseases, yet its association with PUD is understudied, particularly in Central and Eastern Europe. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between oral health status and the presence of PUD in a nationally representative Hungarian population.

METHODS

Using cross-sectional data from the 2,019 European Health Interview Survey in Hungary (EHIS), we analyzed oral health indicators (decayed teeth, bleeding gums, loose teeth, tooth extractions, dental restorations, and self-perceived oral health) and constructed a composite oral health status via exploratory factor analysis. Multivariable logistic regression assessed the association between oral health and self-reported PUD, adjusting for sociodemographic, lifestyle, mental health, and comorbidity factors.

RESULTS

Active dental and periodontal disease (OR = 1.54, 95% CI: 1.07-2.20, p = 0.017) and a history of dental and periodontal disease (OR = 2.17, 95% CI: 1.01-4.67, p = 0.047) were significantly associated with higher odds of self-reported PUD. Older age, female sex, smoking, depression, and selected comorbidities were also associated with PUD.

CONCLUSIONS

Poor oral health, particularly indicators of active periodontal disease, was independently associated with PUD in this nationally representative cross-sectional sample. These findings suggest a potential connection between oral health status and gastrointestinal health, which warrants further investigation in longitudinal studies.