Cardiovascular risk factors associated with polymyalgia rheumatica and giant cell arteritis in a prospective cohort: EPIC-Norfolk Study. (19th July 2019)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Yates, Max; Luben, Robert; Hayat, Shabina; Mackie, Sarah L; Watts, Richard A; Khaw, Kay-Tee; Wareham, Nick J; MacGregor, Alex J
• Is Part Of: Rheumatology. Volume 59:Number 2(2020)
• Page Start: 319
• Page End: 323
• Publication Date: 2019-07-19
• Subjects: giant cell arteritis -- polymyalgia rheumatica -- cardiovascular disease; Rheumatism -- Periodicals; Rheumatology -- Periodicals; 616.723005
• DOI: 10.1093/rheumatology/kez289
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1462-0324

Abstract

Abstract: Objectives: PMR and GCA are associated with increased risk of vascular disease. However, it remains unclear whether this relationship is causal or reflects a common underlying propensity. The aim of this study was to identify whether known cardiovascular risk factors increase the risk of PMR and GCA. Methods: Clinical records were examined using key word searches to identify cases of PMR and GCA, applying current classification criteria in a population-based cohort. Associations between cardiovascular risk factors and incident PMR and GCA were analysed using Cox proportional hazards. Results: In 315 022 person years of follow-up, there were 395 incident diagnoses of PMR and 118 incident diagnoses of GCA that met the clinical definition. Raised diastolic blood pressure (>90 mmHg) at baseline/recruitment was associated with subsequent incident PMR [hazard ratio=1.35 (95% CI 1.01, 1.80) P =0.045], and ever-smoking was associated with incident GCA [hazard ratio=2.01 (95% CI 1.26, 3.20) P =0.003]. Estimates were similar when the analysis was restricted to individuals whose diagnoses satisfied the current classification criteria sets. Conclusion: PMR and GCA shares common risk factors with vascular disease onset, suggesting a common underlying propensity. This may indicate a potential for disease prevention strategies through modifying cardiovascular risk.