The role of chronic inflammation in the development and course of cardiovascular diseases in patients with inflammatory bowel disease | Ukrainian Medical Journal

Inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD), including Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, are chronic inflammatory conditions involving primarily the gastrointestinal tract. The global burden of IBD continues to increase. Patients with IBD are at increased risk of cardiovascular diseases (CVD). CVD are of particular concern, ranking as the second leading cause of mortality in this population. Systemic inflammation, together with endothelial dysfunction, calcification, and hypercoagulability, leads to premature atherosclerosis in patients with IBD. The initial examination should include basic laboratory tests and instrumental methods, as well as non-invasive assessment of inflammation using additional biomarkers. Controlling chronic inflammation is key to reducing CVD risk. Adequate treatment of the underlying IBD is essential to achieve and maintain remission. In addition, patients should be screened for atherosclerotic risk factors such as obesity, smoking, arterial hypertension, diabetes, and dyslipidemia. Lifestyle changes such as smoking cessation, dietary modification, and increased physical activity should be considered. It is recommended to intensify the treatment of patients with IBD to minimize inflammatory activity and prevent cardiovascular events in clinical practice.

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