Heart Beat: April 2017

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a risk factor for heart disease, but recent research finds that a common RA drug may help protect against heart attacks. People with RA tend to have higher levels of inflammation, which can contribute to atherosclerosis, the deposit of fatty plaques in the arteries. Over time, chronic inflammation can also harm organs and lead to other health problems. A type of anti-inflammatory drug called TNF inhibitors (TNFis) are prescribed to individuals with RA and other inflammatory conditions.