Salivary cortisol, job stress, and periodontal disease in nursing staff

Cortisol salivar, estresse ocupacional e doença periodontal em enfermagem

Abstract

Introduction  Cortisol is recognized as a biomarker of stress, playing a crucial role in the regulation of various physiological systems. However, when released chronically, it can adversely affect periodontal tissues by diminishing their immune response, thereby increasing susceptibility to colonization by periodontopathogenic microorganisms.

Objective  To examine the relationships among salivary cortisol levels, occupational stress, and the occurrence of periodontal disease in nursing professionals working in a hospital environment.

Material and method  A total of 46 nursing professionals were evaluated through salivary cortisol measurement, completion of the Job Stress Scale, and clinical assessment for periodontal disease.

Result  Of the participants, 25 (54.35%) exhibited normal cortisol levels, whereas 21 (45.65%) had low cortisol levels. Analysis of the Job Stress Scale dimensions showed that the high-demand work quadrant was significantly associated with cortisol classification, increasing the likelihood of low cortisol levels by 23.9 times. All participants demonstrated occupational stress. The overall prevalence of periodontitis was 63.04%; however, no significant association was identified between cortisol levels and periodontal status.

Conclusion  The findings suggest that high job demands influence cortisol levels, thereby increasing the risk for disease development. No association was observed between salivary cortisol levels and periodontal disease.

Descriptors:
Cortisol; periodontal disease; occupational stress; occupational health