What is the risk of cardiovascular mortality in patients with rheumatoid arthritis?
According to a meta-analysis of observational studies, patients with rheumatoid arthritis have an increased risk of cardiovascular mortality compared to those without the condition. Specifically, the risk of cardiovascular mortality was found to be 1.5 times higher in those with rheumatoid arthritis compared to those without the condition. Additionally, studies have shown that patients with rheumatoid arthritis have a more severe presentation of acute coronary syndrome and worse short-term outcomes compared to those without the condition. Furthermore, patients with rheumatoid arthritis are at an increased risk of recurrent cardiac events compared to those without the condition.