In a nutshell
This study examined link between age and gender and cardiovascular risk in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). The authors concluded that the risk of cardiovascular disease is higher in all RA patients than in the general population. They also determined that the risk is highest in RA patients under 50.
Some background
It is known that patients with RA have a higher risk of developing cardiovascular disease (CVD). CVD is a condition where the blood vessels that supply the heart become narrow or blocked. This can lead to heart attacks, chest pain or strokes. If a patient is considered to be high risk for CVD, preventative measures can be taken.
In the general population, males are at a higher risk of developing CVD than females. On the other hand, when other conditions are taken into account, such as diabetes, females have a higher risk of developing CVD than males. It is not clear whether factors such as gender or age affect the risk of developing CVD in RA patients.
Methods & findings
The authors examined data from 13 studies to evaluate the link between age, gender and CVD in RA patients.
RA patients were 35% more likely to experience stroke, 61% more likely to experience coronary artery disease and 53% more likely to experience CVD than the general population. Increased levels of risk were similar for males and females.
Patients under 50 had the highest increased risk. The risk of CVD for those under 50 was 2.59 times higher than the general population.
The bottom line
This study concluded that the risk of CVD for patients with RA is age dependent but does not depend on gender.
The fine print
This data was collected from 13 different studies and not all studies investigated the same outcomes.
What’s next?
Consult with your physician regarding the importance of monitoring your cardiovascular health.
Published By :
PLOS ONE
Date :
Jun 16, 2016
