Inflammation, Conventional Cardiovascular Risk Factors, and Cardiovascular Risk in Rheumatoid Arthritis

Abstract

Multiple studies have shown that rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is linked to a higher likelihood of developing cardiovascular disease (CV) compared to the general population. However, it is important to note that common comorbidities associated with cardiovascular disease also have a significant role, even though long-term inflammation and other characteristics specific to rheumatoid arthritis seem to mitigate part of this risk. This section examines the results of prior research that explored the connection between rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and prevalent cardiovascular disease (CVD) comorbidities, including diabetes, insulin resistance, obesity, dyslipidemia, hypertension, smoking, and excessive physical inactivity. The prevalence of these risk variables, as well as the mechanisms by which RA medications and inflammation impact them, are examined. Three widely used cardiovascular risk estimators in individuals with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) include the Framingham Risk Score, the Reynolds Risk Score, and the Systematic Coronary Risk Evaluation. In this last section, we examine the efficacy of various risk estimators. There are notable disparities in conventional cardiovascular risk factors, such as insulin resistance, atypical fat distribution, smoking, and insufficient physical activity, between those with rheumatoid arthritis and those without the condition. Although the evidence is conflicting, there is a potential association between rheumatoid arthritis and elevated levels of dyslipidemia, diabetes, and hypertension. The available knowledge on cardiovascular risk factors in rheumatoid arthritis primarily relies on data obtained as covariates for studies on cardiovascular disease. There is a dearth of evidence regarding specific risk factors for rheumatoid arthritis (RA), such as the prevalence of these risk variables and the alterations caused by inflammation or therapy. Further investigation is necessary to establish precise techniques for assessing cardiovascular risk in individuals with rheumatoid arthritis.