Steroids use in RA patients linked to high blood pressure
UK: The use of steroids by rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients increases the risk of high blood pressure or hypertension in them, according to a recent study published in the journal Rheumatology. Keeping this in view, clinicians need to consider cardiovascular risk while prescribing GCs to RA patients and ensure that blood pressure (BP) is regularly monitored and treated when necessary.
The large-population based study showed that steroids were linked to a 17% increase in the risk of incident hypertension among rheumatoid arthritis patients.
RA is a chronic inflammatory condition that affects around 1% of the general population. Compared with the general population, RA patients are at increased risk for all-cause mortality. Cardiovascular (CV) disease is a major driver of this: previous studies have shown RA patients to be at increased risk of CV mortality.
RA patients are frequently treated with steroids but whether steroids are associated with hypertension, is doubtful. Ruth E Costello, University of Manchester, Manchester, and colleagues conducted the study to determine whether steroids use is associated with incident hypertension in RA patients.
Disclaimer: This website is primarily for healthcare professionals. The content here does not replace medical advice and should not be used as medical, diagnostic, endorsement, treatment, or prescription advice. Medical science evolves rapidly, and we strive to keep our information current. If you find any discrepancies, please contact us at corrections@medicaldialogues.in. Read our Correction Policy here. Nothing here should be used as a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. We do not endorse any healthcare advice that contradicts a physician's guidance. Use of this site is subject to our Terms of Use, Privacy Policy, and Advertisement Policy. For more details, read our Full Disclaimer here.
NOTE: Join us in combating medical misinformation. If you encounter a questionable health, medical, or medical education claim, email us at factcheck@medicaldialogues.in for evaluation.