A new study found that controlling traditional cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk factors, including blood pressure, cholesterol and smoking, may significantly reduce the progression of atherosclerosis in people with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Even people considered low risk by standard cardiovascular assessments, were not fully protected from plaque progression, underscoring the importance of managing cardiovascular risk factors in people with lupus. 

Researchers at the University College of London examined 69 individuals with SLE over an average of five years. They used vascular ultrasound imaging to assess plaque buildup in the carotid and femoral arteries, and found that while most people were categorized as low cardiovascular risk at baseline, plaque progression occurred in about 26% of patients over time.. Those who achieved at least three cardiovascular risk management targets experienced less progression of subclinical atherosclerosis.

The study also identified positive lupus anticoagulant as a catalyst associated with greater plaque progression, while anti-La positivity appeared to have a potentially protective effect. Notably, disease activity and medications for lupus were not significantly associated with plaque progression in this cohort. These findings highlight growing evidence that managing cardiovascular risk factors can help the buildup of artery-clogging plaque  in people with lupus. Learn more about lupus and heart health. 

Read the study