Mortality in rheumatoid arthritis patients

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic, systemic inflammatory disease characterized by chronic inflammation, increased comorbidities and elevated mortality risk. High mortality in RA is widely studied but not fully clarified. Despite the fact that mortality rates are still high compared to general population, literature shows a decreased trend of mortality in RA. New treatment modalities might be the reason for decreased mortality rates. However, underestimated factors, such as low-grade inflammation, comorbidities, and immunologic or genetic factors, are the explanation to decreased survival rates compared to general population. The most common reasons of mortality are still the same as cardiovascular incidents, infections, malignancies and respiratory system problems. However, there is an ongoing need for further studies in long-term to see the effects of current improvements on mortality of RA. In this review, our aim is to define the changes in the mortality rates over time and to provide current data on mortality rates and causes.