Study Shows Need for More Cardiovascular Disease Assessment and Treatment Among People with Lupus
Recent studies have shown that people with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) may have a higher risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) than those with diabetes mellitus (also a CVD risk factor). A new investigation tracks the rates of lipid testing and prescription of statins among people with lupus in comparison to diabetes mellitus patients as well as those with neither disease, using data from Medicaid Analytic extract. While people with SLE have a higher risk of CVD, the study found that they received less lipid testing and fewer statin prescriptions compared to those with diabetes and individuals in the general Medicaid cohort. Learn more about lupus and CVD, plus steps to minimize your risks for heart disease: Lupus and heart health FAQ.