Rheumatoid Arthritis Increases Heart Disease Risk

A 5-year study published in the BioMed Central's open access journal Arthritis Research & Therapy has determined that inflammation associated with rheumatoid arthritis increases the risk of heart disease and other cardiovascular events. In the study, 400 patients were followed for 5 years. Progression of rheumatoid arthritis was measured by tracking inflammatory markers and physical appearance. Treatment plans, and risk factors for heart disease, were also followed.

Researchers concluded that heart disease, stroke, or blood clots were predictable after considering arthritis intensity, diabetes, high blood pressure and triglycerides. It is possible to lower heart risk by treating inflammation and by paying attention to risk factors linked to heart disease -- called a two-prong approach. Also, DMARDs (disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs) helped reduce heart risk.

Related Resources:

• RA Patients At Higher Risk For Unrecognized Heart Disease, Cardiac Sudden Death
• Inflammation Elevates Risk of Cardiac Death in Rheumatoid Arthritis Patients
• Arthritic Fingers Point To Heart Disease
• Rheumatoid Arthritis Doubles Heart Attack Risk Within First 10 Years

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