Helping People Living with Lupus Communicate with Clinicians and Understand Their Diagnosis
Our team aims to provide clear, actionable information about how to manage lupus and related complications including cardiovascular risks.
Our SLE Lay Document
To support people living with lupus and their loved ones, we’ve created a comprehensive, accessible resource that covers essential topics for managing health and understanding risks. This guide explores:
The risks of cardiovascular disease for people with lupus
Why people with lupus have a higher risk
Who is most at risk for developing cardiovascular disease
What you can do to reduce your risk
Other evidence-based resources available to learn more
FAQs
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People with lupus often experience chronic inflammation due to an overactive immune system, which can accelerate the buildup of plaque in arteries. Additionally, lupus may lead to changes in blood cell activity, increasing the likelihood of blood clots, which are factors that elevate cardiovascular disease risk.
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Common risk factors include high cholesterol, high blood pressure, diabetes, smoking, and age. People with lupus may also have unique risk factors such as active disease symptoms, specific medications, and certain antibodies that increase cardiovascular risk.
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Individuals with high disease activity, those with lupus nephritis (a kidney complication), and certain racial or ethnic groups may be more vulnerable. A family history of cardiovascular disease can also increase the likelihood.
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Risk can be managed by following a treatment plan, maintaining a heart-healthy diet, staying physically active, managing stress, and avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol. Regular checkups with a healthcare provider to monitor cardiovascular health are also recommended.
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We developed an SLE calculator to help predict cardiovascular risk in lupus patients. This tool aims to assist patients and healthcare providers in identifying individual risk factors and making informed health decisions.