Lupus and cardiovascular health
Lupus may be associated with a higher cardiovascular risk (risk of heart or artery disease) than in the general population. This degree of risk varies among individuals with lupus and depends on the level of disease activity, the presence of kidney involvement, the treatments used for lupus, and the presence of classic cardiovascular risk factors (high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, etc.).
Cardiovascular prevention is therefore part of the overall monitoring of people with lupus.
Why might the cardiovascular risk be increased?
Chronic inflammation associated with lupus can affect different parts of the heart and arteries and contribute to the development of cardiovascular disease.
Other factors can also play a role, including high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, high cholesterol, smoking, a sedentary lifestyle, and the type of medication used for lupus. Kidney disease and the presence of antiphospholipids also contribute.
Monitor cardiovascular risk factors
Medical monitoring should include regular surveillance of various parameters, including:
blood pressure;
cholesterol levels and other blood lipids;
blood sugar;
the weight;
possible smoking;
physical activity.
The frequency of check-ups and the objectives to be achieved are tailored to each person's situation.
Addressing modifiable cardiovascular risk factors
Several measures contribute to cardiovascular prevention: not smoking, maintaining appropriate physical activity, having a balanced diet and following prescribed treatments when hypertension, diabetes or a cholesterol abnormality is diagnosed.
These measures complement the control of lupus activity.
Pay attention to certain symptoms
Chest pain, unusual or sudden shortness of breath, dizziness, or any other symptom that may suggest a cardiovascular problem requires medical evaluation.
Some acute symptoms may require urgent medical attention.
Personalized follow-up
Cardiovascular risk is not the same in all people with lupus.
The doctor assesses the patient taking into account age, medical history, activity level and duration of illness, treatments, possible organ damage and other risk factors.
This assessment allows for the adaptation of prevention measures and, when necessary, treatments.
Key points to remember
Cardiovascular prevention is an integral part of lupus management.
Controlling the disease, monitoring blood pressure, cholesterol and blood sugar, quitting smoking and appropriate physical activity help to reduce the risk factors that can be addressed.
Follow-up care must be individualized according to each patient's situation.
This information sheet is for general information purposes only. It does not replace a consultation or personalized medical advice for diagnosis and follow-up.
Sources: PNDS Systemic Lupus in Adults and Children (2024) — Reference Centers / RAISE / FAI²R Network; institutional recommendations relating to cardiovascular prevention.
Content reviewed and validated by Professor Saïd Norou DIOP, specialist in Internal Medicine, medical advisor for TAHIRAH CARE.
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