The Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospitals Complex (OAUTHC), Ile-Ife, on Tuesday, 15th April 2025, held the second edition of its Grand Round at the Mini Auditorium of the hospital’s complex. Themed “The Deadly Triangle: How Gum Disease, Kidney Disease, and Diabetes Are Secretly Connected,” the event focused on the intricate and often overlooked interplay between oral health and systemic chronic diseases.
The Grand Round, an academic forum organised by the hospital to enhance interdisciplinary knowledge sharing and professional development, featured presentations by leading experts in periodontology and public health.
In her opening remarks, the Chairman, Medical Advisory Committee (CMAC), Prof. Josephine Eziyi, who represented the Chief Medical Director of OAUTHC, Prof. John Okeniyi, welcomed participants and commended the organizers and guest lecturers for addressing a timely and critical health topic. She reiterated the hospital management’s commitment to fostering continuous medical education and supporting initiatives that promote integrated healthcare delivery.
The keynote lectures were delivered by Dr. Ojo Ibukun, a Consultant Periodontist from the Department of Dentistry, Federal Teaching Hospital, Ido-Ekiti, and Dr. Onabanjo Olusoji Ayodele, a Consultant Periodontist from the Department of Preventive and Community Dentistry, OAUTHC.
Dr. Ojo, in his presentation, highlighted the public health implications of the relationship between periodontal disease, diabetes mellitus, and chronic kidney disease (CKD). Citing current research, he stated that the presence of gum disease in patients with CKD is associated with a 41% increase in 10-year all-cause mortality. Furthermore, the co-occurrence of periodontitis and diabetes in such patients raises mortality risk by 23%.
He described periodontitis as a chronic inflammatory disease caused by sub gingival bacterial infection, resulting in progressive damage to the tissues supporting the teeth. He noted that inflammation associated with gum disease negatively impacts blood sugar control and kidney function. Dr. Ojo also emphasized that periodontal treatment has shown significant potentials in reducing HbA1c levels, an effect comparable to adding a second pharmacological agent for diabetes management.
The second guest speaker, Dr. Onabanjo, in his lecture, explained that poor oral hygiene and untreated gum disease contribute significantly to systemic inflammation, which can accelerate the progression of both kidney disease and diabetes. He stressed the importance of preventive oral care which includes regular brushing, flossing, tongue cleaning, and the use of non-alcoholic mouthwash. He further identified symptoms such as bleeding gums and tooth loss as potential indicators of underlying health issues.
“Maintaining good oral hygiene does not only improve dental health but also plays a vital role in regulating kidney function and blood glucose levels,” Dr. Onabanjo noted.
The event concluded with the presentation of certificates of appreciation to the guest speakers in recognition of their valuable contributions. The Grand Round was well attended by consultants, resident doctors, dental professionals, and other members of staff, reflecting OAUTHC’s continued commitment to academic excellence and integrated healthcare promotion.
