Rheumatoid arthritis patients 'at an increased risk of atherosclerosis'

This study confirms increased prevalence of atherosclerosis in rheumatoid arthritis and provides data to support the hypothesis that patients have a high-risk plaque phenotype." Arthritis Research UK's view Dr Natalie Carter, head of research liaison and evaluation at Arthritis Research UK, said:"Rheumatoid arthritis is an incredibly debilitating condition that affects more than 400,000 people within the UK. The condition can not only limit a person's ability to live their everyday life to the full, but it can also put them at higher risk of cardiovascular disease. "This study not only reinforces the link between rheumatoid arthritis and cardiovascular disease, but the results can also help us understand what causes atherosclerosis in both patients with rheumatoid arthritis and the general public."
Source: Arthritis Research UK - Category: Rheumatology Source Type: news