In a nutshell
This study investigated if weight changes increase the risk of cardiovascular events (CVEs) in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). They found that a 10% increase or decrease in weight increased the risk of CVEs in these patients.
Some background
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic condition. It is caused by painful inflammation in the joints. This can lead to disability and reduced quality of life (QoL). Weight changes are commonly seen in patients with RA. Weight gain or loss can be related to the disease or treatment. It can also be caused by poor lifestyle due to disability and reduced QoL.
Weight changes have been associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular events (CVEs) in the general population. CVEs include heart attacks, stroke or death due to heart disease. It is unclear if weight changes affect CVE risk in patients with.
Methods & findings
This study included the records of 31,180 patients with RA. Disease activity (DA), medications and CVEs were evaluated in relation to weight changes during at least 2 follow-up visits to their doctor. The average follow-up period was 3.4 years.
54% of all patients had a stable weight at the second follow-up. Patients who lost or gained 10% of their initial weight were more likely to have higher DA and have worse physical functioning. Patients with 10% weight loss had an 18% greater risk of CVEs. Patients with 10% weight gain had a 20% higher risk of CVEs. The effects of weight changes were more pronounced in patients with an initial normal weight.
The bottom line
The authors concluded that a 10% weight gain or loss increased the risk of CVEs in patients with RA.
The fine print
The cause of weight change in this study was not included. This might have influenced the results.
Published By :
Arthritis Care & Research
Date :
Oct 01, 2020
