[Rheumatoid arthritis and cardiovascular risk factor : literature review]

Area of Science:

• Rheumatology
• Cardiology
• Geriatrics

Background:

• Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a prevalent autoimmune disease.
• RA presents significant diagnostic and therapeutic challenges, especially in the elderly population.
• RA is linked to elevated mortality rates, particularly from coronary and cerebrovascular atherosclerosis.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the role of rheumatoid arthritis as a cardiovascular risk factor.
• To synthesize current literature on the association between RA and cardiovascular disease (CVD).

Main Methods:

• A comprehensive literature review was conducted.
• Searched databases for studies investigating RA and cardiovascular outcomes.

Main Results:

• Rheumatoid arthritis is an independent risk factor for cardiovascular disease.
• Patients with RA exhibit higher rates of atherosclerosis, myocardial infarction, and stroke.
• Inflammation associated with RA contributes to atherogenesis and cardiovascular events.

Conclusions:

• Rheumatoid arthritis significantly increases cardiovascular risk.
• Early detection and management of cardiovascular risk factors in RA patients are crucial.
• Further research is needed to elucidate mechanisms and optimize CVD prevention in RA.