The development of congestive heart failure (CHF) in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) significantly contributes to increased cardiovascular disease (CVD)-related mortality and all-cause mortality, according to results from an observational cohort study published in 2006. are doing. clinical rheumatology.

Researchers used data from the U.S. National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) database from 1999 to 2018 to examine the association between CHF and all-cause mortality in patients with rheumatoid arthritis. Briefly, NHANES is his biennial survey that includes data on dietary patterns. Health behaviors and overall health status of the U.S. population.

RA patients at least 20 years of age were included in the analysis. Patients self-reported diagnoses of CHF and RA, which were confirmed by a medical professional.

A total of 2,045 rheumatoid arthritis patients (mean age 60.32 years, 57.60% female) were included in the final analysis. 44.4% of patients were non-Hispanic white, 28.2% were non-Hispanic black, and 47.04% had a BMI greater than 30 kg/m.².

Overall, with a median follow-up of 109 months, there were 602 deaths, 209 of which were due to CVD. The researchers noted that 191 people (9.34%) were diagnosed with CHF. People with and without CHF were more likely to have high blood pressure, smoke, have poor kidney function, and be less likely to abstain from alcohol.

According to fully adjusted models, CHF patients had a significantly higher risk of CVD-related death (hazard ratio) [HR], 2.11. 95% CI, 1.45-3.06) and faced a 60% higher risk of all-cause mortality (HR, 1.60; 95% CI, 1.27-2.01; both) P <.0001) compared to those without CHF.

No significant association was found between CHF and cancer-related mortality (HR, 1.43; 95% CI, 0.81-2.54; P =.2220).

Results of subgroup analyzes showed a significant association between CHF and all-cause mortality among women and individuals aged 65 years and older.

Sensitivity analyzes showed no significant changes in results after adjusting for physical activity level, lipid profile, C-reactive protein levels, inflammation score, and vitamin D.

Study limitations include observational design, reliance on self-reported health status and lifestyle data, potential selection bias, and unaccounted for residual confounders.

“Clinicians should be aware of the increased risk of mortality associated with the comorbidity of these diseases and prioritize regular monitoring of chronic heart failure in patients with rheumatoid arthritis.”