Risk factors of periodontal disease: Latin America and the Caribbean Consensus 2024

There is scarcity of information on the determinants of periodontitis in Latin America and Caribbean countries. We conducted a comprehensive review of studies examining the association of smoking and diabetes with periodontitis outcomes in this region. We searched for population-based, cross-sectional and prospective cohort studies from Latin America and the Caribbean region that reported on the association between smoking or diabetes and periodontitis. Databases were searched up to October 2023 by two reviewers. Subsequently, two authors independently conducted a rigorous data extraction process, focusing on study characteristics, the definition of exposures, and periodontitis outcomes, including measures of association and main findings. The results revealed a significant association between smoking and periodontitis, with a stronger effect observed in heavy smokers. Conversely, while some studies observed a higher prevalence of periodontitis among diabetic individuals, the association between diabetes and periodontitis was not significant after adjusting for confounding factors. These findings underscore a significant research gap in population-based studies on the effect of smoking and diabetes on periodontitis within Latin American and Caribbean countries, particularly when it comes to cohort studies. Addressing these gaps is crucial for a deeper understanding of these associations, which could lead to more effective prevention and treatment strategies in the region.