In a nutshell
This study examined the effects of physical activity levels on cardiovascular disease risk (heart and blood vessel disease) in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). The authors concluded that less time spent sedentary and more time doing light physical activity can reduce the risk of cardiovascular diease in RA patients.
Some background
Patients with RA can experience on-going pain and swollen joints. This limits a patient’s mobility which may prevent them from being able to exercise. Physical activity is important for cardiovascular health. Sedentary behavior, or inactivity, may lead to an increased risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD). Moderate-intensity exercise is generally recommended to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Lighter physical activity is more suitable for patients with RA. This may also help to lower cardiovascular risks and improve functional ability.
Methods & findings
61 patients with RA took part in this study. All patients wore an accelerometer for 1 week to measure activity levels. Activity levels were classified as sedentary, light physical activity, or moderate-to-intense activity. The 10-year risk of CVD was calculated for each activity level. Functional disability was measured by a questionnaire.
Average daily sedentary time and more than 20 sedentary minutes at a time were associated with an increased risk of CVD. Light physical activity significantly lowered the risk of 10-year CVD. These results were comparable among patients who recorded more intense levels of activity and those who did not. No significant associations between activity levels and functional ability were observed.
The bottom line
The authors concluded that decreasing sedentary time and increasing light physical activity can reduce the risk of CVD in patients with RA.
The fine print
Larger studies are needed to confirm these findings.
Published By :
BMC musculoskeletal disorders
Date :
Mar 29, 2017
