Association of cardiovascular risks in rheumatoid arthritis patients: Management, treatment and future perspectives

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients exhibit a notable 50%-70% elevation in heart disease risk compared to the general population, attributable to their heightened susceptibility to cardiovascular disease (CVD). The contribution of the rheumatology branch in preventing cardiovascular (CV) risk remains challenging to comprehend fully. Traditional CV risk factors alone fail to elucidate the augmented mortality and morbidity linked to RA; rather, the cumulative inflammatory burden and cardiotoxicity associated with antirheumatic therapy emerge as pivotal determinants. A noteworthy correlation exists between the use of anti-inflammatory medications, commonly prescribed for arthritis, and an increased risk of premature mortality. Despite acknowledging and comprehending the burden of CVD in RA, caring for affected individuals continues to present challenges. Effective management of CV risk in RA necessitates meticulous consideration of established risk factors and behavioral adaptations. Collaborative engagement among rheumatologists, cardiologists, internists, and primary care providers becomes imperative for optimally attending to RA patients at cardiovascular risk. This review critically evaluates pivotal studies in this domain, shedding light on potential future directions for enhancing CV risk management in RA patients.