Is There an Association with Preterm Low Birth Weight?
Low birth weight (small for gestational age and preterm delivery) is the leading cause of infant mortality among African Americans and the second most frequent cause among Caucasians. Researchers have studied many potential causal factors including tobacco use, genitourinary tract infection such as Bacterial Vaginosis, multiple gestation, and a genetic history of preterm low birth weight delivery. However, 25% to 50% of these births occur without any known cause. One area of promising research is the effect of periodontal disease on preterm delivery. Dennis Mangan, Ph.D., Chief, Infectious Diseases and Immunity Branch, National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, NIH, discussed recent research findings at the Healthy Mothers Healthy Babies Annual Update. Dr. Mangan described periodontal disease as a chronic infection caused by bacteria existing at the gum line. This infection causes inflammation and bleeding gums and, if not treated, leads to tissue destruction and ultimatel
