African American males who smoke, are overweight, have elevated blood pressure, and have periodontal disease are at risk for cardiovascular disease. Being overweight is also a risk factor for diabetes mellitus. Together, these three conditions (high blood pressure, overweight status, and diabetes mellitus) have been called the metabolic syndrome. This information should be part of the dental hygienist's individualized educational plan for the client. Clients must be educated about the links between some oral and systemic diseases.
a) True
b) False