December 4, 2013 - INTELIHEALTH - Bodybuilders who use anabolic steroids are much more likely than other men to have severe gum disease, says a study. The study, done in Buenos Aires, Argentina, included 92 male bodybuilders. Compared with men who did not use steroids, steroid users:

- Were more likely to have inflamed gums.

- Had more than twice the risk of severe gum disease.

- Were five to eight times as likely to be infected with bacteria that are major causes of gum disease.

- Were nearly 15 times as likely to be infected with Candida parapsilosis, a type of yeast that has recently become a source of infection in people with weakened immune systems.

No other studies have been published on the use of anabolic steroids and gum disease. However, steroid use has been linked to many other health problems, such as liver damage, kidney damage, high blood pressure, infertility, mood swings and an increased risk for prostate cancer.

The study appears in the November 13 issue of the journal Clinical and Oral Investigations.

Source: InteliHealth News Service