Cardiovascular risk factors, fitness and physical activity in rheumatic diseases.
OBJECTIVE
There is increased recognition of an excess risk of cardiovascular disease in patients with rheumatic disorders. Physical inactivity is a frequent complication of arthritis, and also common in the general population. In this review, we highlight recent findings on risk factors for cardiovascular disease in patients with rheumatic diseases, and explore the role of physical activity for the prevention of cardiovascular disease.


RESULTS
Inflammatory mechanisms are clearly involved in cardiovascular disease in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus and rheumatoid arthritis. In rheumatoid arthritis, disability is also a major predictor of cardiovascular disease. A sedentary lifestyle increases the risk of cardiovascular disease in the general population, and high physical activity prevents cardiovascular disease mortality and morbidity. Successful treatment of rheumatic disease with control of inflammation and improved functional capacity may also reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease.


CONCLUSIONS
As part of the effort to prevent vascular comorbidity, regular exercise should be encouraged in patients with rheumatic diseases, and structured interventions to reduce adverse lifestyle factors scientifically evaluated.
Turesson
Carl
C
Department of Rheumatology, Malmö University Hospital, Malmö, Sweden. turesson.carl@mayo.edu
Matteson
Eric L
EL
D018501:Antirheumatic Agents / Q000009:adverse effects; D001172:Arthritis, Rheumatoid / Q000150:complications* / Q000276:immunology; D002318:Cardiovascular Diseases / Q000209:etiology* / Q000276:immunology / Q000517:prevention & control; D015444:Exercise; D006801:Humans; D008019:Life Style; D008180:Lupus Erythematosus, Systemic / Q000150:complications* / Q000276:immunology; D009043:Motor Activity; D010809:Physical Fitness; D012307:Risk Factors
D018501:Antirheumatic Agents