Early menopause plus rheumatoid arthritis could mean more heart disease

Women with rheumatoid arthritis who have early menopause (before 45 years old) may be at higher risk of heart disease, says a study presented at the American College of Rheumatology annual meeting.

“This study shows the complex relationship between rheumatoid arthritis, hormones and heart disease,” says senior author Dr Eric Matteson. “We also found patients who have had multiple children, especially seven or more, are at higher risk of cardiovascular disease compared with women who have menopause at a normal age or have fewer children.”

Hormonal influences are thought to contribute to the development of rheumatoid arthritis, particularly as about two-thirds of people with rheumatoid arthritis are women.

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For more information on the study visit http://www.mayoclinic.org/news2013-rst/7742.html.