Undiagnosed Type 2 Diabetes in Patients with Chronic Periodontitis
Research type
Research Study
Full title
The prevalence of potentially undiagnosed type 2 diabetes in patients with chronic periodontitis in an NHS general dental practice in London - a feasibility study
IRAS ID
245231
Contact name
Gavin Goh
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
University of Kent
Duration of Study in the UK
0 years, 5 months, 28 days
Research summary
Both type 2 diabetes and chronic periodontitis (a type of gum disease) are becoming increasingly prevalent in the UK. A bidirectional relationship between these two diseases has been well documented but it is estimated that of those with diabetes, one in four people have not yet been diagnosed. There is a current lack of research in the UK looking at identifying potential undiagnosed type 2 diabetes in patients with chronic periodontitis within a dental setting. This has important implications not just for the patient, in terms of increased risks of mortality and co-morbidity, but also for healthcare professionals to be able to recognise these susceptible patients and manage them accordingly.
Therefore, the aim of this study is to investigate the prevalence of undiagnosed type 2 diabetes in patients with chronic periodontitis attending an NHS (National Health Service) general dental practice in London, over a 6-month period. It will mainly assess the feasibility and results of diabetic screening amongst eligible patients within primary care setting.
Patients will be routinely examined and a diagnosis on their gum health will be made; if the patient has any form of chronic periodontitis, their medical history will be checked to see if they have already been diagnosed with type 2 diabetes or if they have had a test for diabetes within the last three years. If they do not meet these criteria, then the patient will be invited to participate in the study. A self-reported questionnaire will be given to the patient to complete, categorising them into an estimated risk group. If the patient is at an increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes, based on a cut-off point, a referral letter will be sent to their General Medical Practitioner (GMP) for formal testing. The results will be recorded and analysed.
REC name
London - Bromley Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
18/LO/1529
Date of REC Opinion
7 Oct 2018
REC opinion
Favourable Opinion