Health and Me

Tanya Dutt

5 Nurses Diagnosed With Brain Tumors On Same Floor: Is It A Cancer Cluster?

5 Nurses Diagnosed With Brain Tumors on Same Floor: Is It a Cancer Cluster?

Five nurses from the same fifth-floor maternity unit at a Massachusetts Hospital have been diagnosed with brain tumors. While the tumors have been classified as benign, the unusual cluster has raised questions about potential environmental or occupational exposures within the facility. The affected nurses, all of whom worked closely on the same ward, have begun to speak out—sharing personal accounts and seeking clarity amidst growing unease. Although hospital officials report no environmental threats following internal assessments, the Massachusetts Nurses Association has launched an independent investigation, citing gaps in the original review. This unfolding situation not only brings attention to occupational health risks in clinical environments but also underscores the importance of thorough, transparent, and science-led responses to emerging health concerns in healthcare settings.

In a startling development that has raised serious concerns about occupational safety and long-term health risks within healthcare facilities. The cases, all linked to the fifth-floor maternity unit of Newton-Wellesley Hospital near Boston, have triggered an ongoing independent investigation amid claims that the hospital's initial response was insufficient.

The cluster of tumor diagnoses—part of a broader set of health concerns raised by at least 11 employees—has reignited debates around environmental exposure, transparency in institutional health investigations, and the rights of healthcare workers.

For nurses on the maternity floor at Newton-Wellesley Hospital, the news of colleagues being diagnosed with brain tumors was initially dismissed as coincidental. But when more nurses began to come forward—each with similar diagnoses—the pattern became too disturbing to ignore.

One nurse, who has asked to remain anonymous, described feeling an increasing sense of unease. “It’s getting to the point where the number just increases, and you start saying, ‘Am I crazy thinking this?’” she said. “This can’t just be a coincidence.”

According to this nurse, nearly ten nurses who have worked long-term on the fifth floor have been diagnosed with tumors over the last few years, some cancerous and some benign. At least three of these individuals have already undergone surgery. Despite these serious medical developments, she believes the hospital’s support has been inadequate. “We want reassurance, because this has not been a reassuring past few months for a lot of the staff members,” she added.

In response to the concerns, Newton-Wellesley Hospital—part of the Mass General Brigham network—initiated an internal investigation in December. A joint statement from Associate Chief Medical Officer Dr. Jonathan Sonis and Chief Nursing Officer Sandy Muse emphasized the hospital’s commitment to safety and transparency.

“We conducted an extensive investigation in collaboration with the Department of Occupational Health and Safety, radiation and pharmaceutical safety offices, and external environmental consultants,” the statement said.

Environmental assessments were conducted in accordance with CDC guidelines, including evaluations of air quality, radiation exposure, and other potential hazards on the fifth-floor unit. Hospital officials maintain that these assessments have revealed no link between the work environment and the development of brain tumors. All affected nurses were individually interviewed, and their medical histories and risk factors were taken into account.

“Based on these results, we can confidently reassure our dedicated team members and all our patients that there is no environmental risk at our facility,” the statement added.

Despite the hospital’s conclusions, the Massachusetts Nurses Association (MNA), which represents many of the affected staff members, remains unconvinced. Spokesperson Joe Markman has publicly criticized the hospital’s investigative scope and approach.

“The hospital only spoke to a small number of nurses, and their environmental testing was not comprehensive,” Markman said. “The hospital cannot make this issue go away by attempting to provide a predetermined conclusion.”

As a result, the MNA has launched its own independent investigation, working with environmental scientists and occupational health experts to evaluate whether an undiscovered factor may be at play. “Right now, the best way we can help is to complete an independent, scientific investigation. That effort is underway and may take additional weeks,” Markman noted.

Of the five confirmed brain tumor cases, at least two nurses were diagnosed with meningiomas—the most common type of benign brain tumor in adults. While non-cancerous, these tumors can still cause significant neurological complications and require surgical removal.

According to the American Brain Tumor Association, meningiomas account for approximately 30% of all primary brain tumors. Though often slow-growing, their cause remains largely unknown. Some environmental and occupational factors have been hypothesized, including prolonged exposure to radiation or certain industrial chemicals, but definitive links are rare and difficult to prove.

The appearance of multiple cases within a confined geographic or occupational setting, however, is unusual enough to merit deeper investigation.

While Newton-Wellesley Hospital has stood by its findings, the incident has sparked broader conversations in healthcare circles. Nurses, often the backbone of any hospital, are regularly exposed to stressful environments, long working hours, and, in some cases, hazardous substances.

Workplace illness clusters have historically led to crucial discoveries about environmental exposure—think asbestos in shipyards or radiation in early radiology labs. Whether this situation at Newton-Wellesley turns out to be another such case remains to be seen.

<h2>What Are <span rel="noindex"><a href="https://www.healthandme.com/health/cancer">Cancer</a></span> Clusters?</h2>

A cancer cluster refers to an unusually high number of cancer cases—typically the same type—occurring within a defined group of people, geographic location, or occupational setting over a particular period. These clusters often surface through anecdotal observation, with individuals or communities raising concerns after noticing an unexpected concentration of cancer diagnoses among colleagues, neighbors, or family members.

Notably, cancer is unfortunately common—particularly in aging populations. For example, in places like Queensland, Australia, data shows that one in two men and one in three women are likely to develop cancer by the age of 80. Because of this high baseline incidence, it is not uncommon for several cases to appear in one community or workplace simply by chance, without any shared cause or exposure.

Still, certain patterns merit deeper investigation. A suspected cancer cluster is more likely to be considered a confirmed cancer cluster when:

<ul><li>All or most cases are of the same type of cancer</li><li>The cancer type is rare or unusual for the population group</li><li>It affects people in uncharacteristic age groups</li></ul>

There is known exposure to a carcinogenic agent, such as radiation, chemicals, or environmental toxins

Even then, confirmation is rare. Historically, most suspected cancer clusters do not show statistical significance, with only 5–15% found to be meaningfully above expected rates upon epidemiological analysis. The rest are often attributable to random distribution, as even in large, well-studied populations, uneven geographic or social clustering of cases can occur purely by chance.

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Five nurses from the same fifth-floor maternity unit at a Massachusetts Hospital have been diagnosed with brain tumors. While the tumors have been classified as benign, the unusual cluster has raised questions about potential environmental or occupational exposures within the facility. The affected nurses, all of whom worked closely on the same ward, have begun to speak out—sharing personal accounts and seeking clarity amidst growing unease. Although hospital officials report no environmental threats following internal assessments, the Massachusetts Nurses Association has launched an independent investigation, citing gaps in the original review. This unfolding situation not only brings attention to occupational health risks in clinical environments but also underscores the importance of thorough, transparent, and science-led responses to emerging health concerns in healthcare settings.In a startling development that has raised serious concerns about occupational safety and long-term health risks within healthcare facilities. The cases, all linked to the fifth-floor maternity unit of Newton-Wellesley Hospital near Boston, have triggered an ongoing independent investigation amid claims that the hospital's initial response was insufficient.The cluster of tumor diagnoses—part of a broader set of health concerns raised by at least 11 employees—has reignited debates around environmental exposure, transparency in institutional health investigations, and the rights of healthcare workers.For nurses on the maternity floor at Newton-Wellesley Hospital, the news of colleagues being diagnosed with brain tumors was initially dismissed as coincidental. But when more nurses began to come forward—each with similar diagnoses—the pattern became too disturbing to ignore.One nurse, who has asked to remain anonymous, described feeling an increasing sense of unease. “It’s getting to the point where the number just increases, and you start saying, ‘Am I crazy thinking this?’” she said. “This can’t just be a coincidence.”According to this nurse, nearly ten nurses who have worked long-term on the fifth floor have been diagnosed with tumors over the last few years, some cancerous and some benign. At least three of these individuals have already undergone surgery. Despite these serious medical developments, she believes the hospital’s support has been inadequate. “We want reassurance, because this has not been a reassuring past few months for a lot of the staff members,” she added.In response to the concerns, Newton-Wellesley Hospital—part of the Mass General Brigham network—initiated an internal investigation in December. A joint statement from Associate Chief Medical Officer Dr. Jonathan Sonis and Chief Nursing Officer Sandy Muse emphasized the hospital’s commitment to safety and transparency.“We conducted an extensive investigation in collaboration with the Department of Occupational Health and Safety, radiation and pharmaceutical safety offices, and external environmental consultants,” the statement said.Environmental assessments were conducted in accordance with CDC guidelines, including evaluations of air quality, radiation exposure, and other potential hazards on the fifth-floor unit. Hospital officials maintain that these assessments have revealed no link between the work environment and the development of brain tumors. All affected nurses were individually interviewed, and their medical histories and risk factors were taken into account.“Based on these results, we can confidently reassure our dedicated team members and all our patients that there is no environmental risk at our facility,” the statement added.Despite the hospital’s conclusions, the Massachusetts Nurses Association (MNA), which represents many of the affected staff members, remains unconvinced. Spokesperson Joe Markman has publicly criticized the hospital’s investigative scope and approach.“The hospital only spoke to a small number of nurses, and their environmental testing was not comprehensive,” Markman said. “The hospital cannot make this issue go away by attempting to provide a predetermined conclusion.”As a result, the MNA has launched its own independent investigation, working with environmental scientists and occupational health experts to evaluate whether an undiscovered factor may be at play. “Right now, the best way we can help is to complete an independent, scientific investigation. That effort is underway and may take additional weeks,” Markman noted.What are Meningiomas?Of the five confirmed brain tumor cases, at least two nurses were diagnosed with meningiomas—the most common type of benign brain tumor in adults. While non-cancerous, these tumors can still cause significant neurological complications and require surgical removal.According to the American Brain Tumor Association, meningiomas account for approximately 30% of all primary brain tumors. Though often slow-growing, their cause remains largely unknown. Some environmental and occupational factors have been hypothesized, including prolonged exposure to radiation or certain industrial chemicals, but definitive links are rare and difficult to prove.The appearance of multiple cases within a confined geographic or occupational setting, however, is unusual enough to merit deeper investigation.While Newton-Wellesley Hospital has stood by its findings, the incident has sparked broader conversations in healthcare circles. Nurses, often the backbone of any hospital, are regularly exposed to stressful environments, long working hours, and, in some cases, hazardous substances.Workplace illness clusters have historically led to crucial discoveries about environmental exposure—think asbestos in shipyards or radiation in early radiology labs. Whether this situation at Newton-Wellesley turns out to be another such case remains to be seen.What Are Cancer Clusters?A cancer cluster refers to an unusually high number of cancer cases—typically the same type—occurring within a defined group of people, geographic location, or occupational setting over a particular period. These clusters often surface through anecdotal observation, with individuals or communities raising concerns after noticing an unexpected concentration of cancer diagnoses among colleagues, neighbors, or family members.Notably, cancer is unfortunately common—particularly in aging populations. For example, in places like Queensland, Australia, data shows that one in two men and one in three women are likely to develop cancer by the age of 80. Because of this high baseline incidence, it is not uncommon for several cases to appear in one community or workplace simply by chance, without any shared cause or exposure.Still, certain patterns merit deeper investigation. A suspected cancer cluster is more likely to be considered a confirmed cancer cluster when:All or most cases are of the same type of cancerThe cancer type is rare or unusual for the population groupIt affects people in uncharacteristic age groupsThere is known exposure to a carcinogenic agent, such as radiation, chemicals, or environmental toxinsEven then, confirmation is rare. Historically, most suspected cancer clusters do not show statistical significance, with only 5–15% found to be meaningfully above expected rates upon epidemiological analysis. The rest are often attributable to random distribution, as even in large, well-studied populations, uneven geographic or social clustering of cases can occur purely by chance.

5 nurses diagnosed with brain tumors on same floor: is it a cancer cluster?

Riya Baibhawi

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Former Deputy PM of <span>Australia</span> and Nationals MP <span>Barnaby Joyce</span> said that he has been diagnosed with prostate cancer. Joyce, who was recently re-elected to his <span>New England</span> seat, said he will undergo surgery on Monday. Nearly 25,000 men, on average, are diagnosed with prostate cancer every year, according to statistics by the Australian government. 

Speaking to <em>ABC News, </em>the 58-year-old said that he had not experienced any symptoms, but his doctor recommended a prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood test. The test results indicated elevated PSA levels,  leading to an MRI and biopsy that confirmed the cancer diagnosis. Prostate cancer is the most prevalent cancer among men, affecting one in eight men over their lifetime. Joyce expressed gratitude for the early detection and said he is optimistic about making a full recovery.

"If you catch prostate cancer early, it is highly treatable – with a success rate of about 97%," Joyce stated, urging men to be vigilant about symptoms and consider taking the PSA test for early detection. Following the surgery, Joyce plans to take some time off to recover. "I'll be resting as instructed by my family," he said,  noting that his wife has prohibited him from engaging in farm work during his recovery period. 

<h2>How To Identify Prostate Cancer?</h2>

Prostate cancer is a type of cancer that occurs when malignant cells form in the prostate gland, which is a walnut-sized gland in the male reproductive system. Prostate cancer treatment guidelines have shifted their path a bit in recent years, with many men opting for active surveillance rather than immediate treatment for slow-growing tumours. However, about 50% of men on "watchful waiting" will require further treatment within 5 years because of the tumour progression. This is what triggered many researchers to aim and identify whether dietary modifications, specifically increasing omega-3 fatty acids, could prolong this surveillance period and slow down the tumour progression.

Prostate cancer that's more advanced may cause signs and symptoms such as:

<ul><li>Trouble urinating</li><li>Decreased force in the stream of urine</li><li>Blood in the urine</li><li>Blood in the semen</li><li>Bone pain</li><li>Losing weight without trying</li><li>Erectile dysfunction</li></ul>Prostate cancer treatment and management vary based on the stage and severity of the disease. Early-stage cancer may be monitored through active surveillance, involving regular check-ups without immediate intervention. More advanced cases may require surgery to remove the prostate gland, radiation therapy to target cancer cells, or hormone therapy to reduce testosterone levels that fuel cancer growth. Chemotherapy and targeted drug therapies may also be employed in metastatic cases. Lifestyle modifications, such as a healthy diet, regular exercise, and stress management, can support overall health during treatment. Early detection and timely intervention significantly improve treatment outcomes. 

<strong>ALSO READ: </strong><a href="https://www.healthandme.com/health-news/robotic-surgery-for-prostate-removal-could-be-the-solution-to-erectile-dysfunction-article-151136098" data-type="tilCustomLink">Prostate Removal Could Be The Solution To Erectile Dysfunction</a>

Prostate Caner

barnaby joyce

new england

Barnaby prostate cancer

australia

Former Deputy PM of Australia and Nationals MP Barnaby Joyce said that he has been diagnosed with prostate cancer. Joyce, who was recently re-elected to his New England seat, said he will undergo surgery on Monday. Nearly 25,000 men, on average, are diagnosed with prostate cancer every year, according to statistics by the Australian government. Speaking to ABC News, the 58-year-old said that he had not experienced any symptoms, but his doctor recommended a prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood test. The test results indicated elevated PSA levels,  leading to an MRI and biopsy that confirmed the cancer diagnosis. Prostate cancer is the most prevalent cancer among men, affecting one in eight men over their lifetime. Joyce expressed gratitude for the early detection and said he is optimistic about making a full recovery."If you catch prostate cancer early, it is highly treatable – with a success rate of about 97%," Joyce stated, urging men to be vigilant about symptoms and consider taking the PSA test for early detection. Following the surgery, Joyce plans to take some time off to recover. "I'll be resting as instructed by my family," he said,  noting that his wife has prohibited him from engaging in farm work during his recovery period. How To Identify Prostate Cancer?Prostate cancer is a type of cancer that occurs when malignant cells form in the prostate gland, which is a walnut-sized gland in the male reproductive system. Prostate cancer treatment guidelines have shifted their path a bit in recent years, with many men opting for active surveillance rather than immediate treatment for slow-growing tumours. However, about 50% of men on "watchful waiting" will require further treatment within 5 years because of the tumour progression. This is what triggered many researchers to aim and identify whether dietary modifications, specifically increasing omega-3 fatty acids, could prolong this surveillance period and slow down the tumour progression.Prostate cancer that's more advanced may cause signs and symptoms such as:Trouble urinatingDecreased force in the stream of urineBlood in the urineBlood in the semenBone painLosing weight without tryingErectile dysfunctionProstate cancer treatment and management vary based on the stage and severity of the disease. Early-stage cancer may be monitored through active surveillance, involving regular check-ups without immediate intervention. More advanced cases may require surgery to remove the prostate gland, radiation therapy to target cancer cells, or hormone therapy to reduce testosterone levels that fuel cancer growth. Chemotherapy and targeted drug therapies may also be employed in metastatic cases. Lifestyle modifications, such as a healthy diet, regular exercise, and stress management, can support overall health during treatment. Early detection and timely intervention significantly improve treatment outcomes. ALSO READ: Prostate Removal Could Be The Solution To Erectile Dysfunction

former australian pm barnaby joyce diagnosed with prostate cancer, to undergo surgery

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United States (US) is witnessing a concerning surge in <span>measles</span> cases, with more than 1,000 reported so far since the beginning of 2025. This is only the second time since the disease was declared eliminated in America 25 years ago that the number of cases has risen this high. A widespread outbreak spanning multiple states continues to escalate, placing the country on course for what could become the worst year for measles since 2000.

As of Wednesday, at least 1,002 measles cases have been confirmed this year, based on figures from the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (<span>CDC</span>) and state health departments. The majority of these cases (over 800) are linked to a significant outbreak concentrated in West Texas that has spread to New Mexico, Oklahoma, and potentially Kansas. Additional cases from some of these states are expected to be reported on Friday.

Health experts caution that the actual number of measles cases is likely undercounted, as many cases go unreported. The current outbreak underscores a troubling rise in cases, similar to the spike in 2019 when New York City and surrounding areas reported a major surge, contributing to a total of 1,274 confirmed cases that year. By comparison, the first five months of 2025 have already seen 1,002 cases – only 272 fewer than the entire year of 2019.

While the CDC continues to update national data on measles cases every Friday, it has ceased providing specific state-by-state case counts. As of Friday, the CDC reported 935 cases nationwide, with approximately 13% resulting in hospitalization. Only about 4% of the affected individuals had received at least one dose of the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine. The outbreak has also led to three measles-related deaths this year – equaling the total number of such deaths over the previous two decades.

According to the CDC, a measles outbreak is defined as three or more related cases. So far in 2025, at least 12 such outbreaks have been identified. Besides the large cluster in West Texas, other states experiencing outbreaks include Ohio, with over 30 reported cases, as well as Montana and Michigan.

The rising numbers have prompted Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. to call for the CDC to reassess treatments for measles and other infectious diseases. As the outbreak continues to grow, public health officials urge Americans to stay vigilant and ensure they are up to date with MMR vaccinations

Measles

Measles Outbreak in US

us HEALTH NEWS

mEASLES IN TEXAS

Healt news

United States (US) is witnessing a concerning surge in measles cases, with more than 1,000 reported so far since the beginning of 2025. This is only the second time since the disease was declared eliminated in America 25 years ago that the number of cases has risen this high. A widespread outbreak spanning multiple states continues to escalate, placing the country on course for what could become the worst year for measles since 2000.As of Wednesday, at least 1,002 measles cases have been confirmed this year, based on figures from the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and state health departments. The majority of these cases (over 800) are linked to a significant outbreak concentrated in West Texas that has spread to New Mexico, Oklahoma, and potentially Kansas. Additional cases from some of these states are expected to be reported on Friday.Health experts caution that the actual number of measles cases is likely undercounted, as many cases go unreported. The current outbreak underscores a troubling rise in cases, similar to the spike in 2019 when New York City and surrounding areas reported a major surge, contributing to a total of 1,274 confirmed cases that year. By comparison, the first five months of 2025 have already seen 1,002 cases – only 272 fewer than the entire year of 2019.While the CDC continues to update national data on measles cases every Friday, it has ceased providing specific state-by-state case counts. As of Friday, the CDC reported 935 cases nationwide, with approximately 13% resulting in hospitalization. Only about 4% of the affected individuals had received at least one dose of the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine. The outbreak has also led to three measles-related deaths this year – equaling the total number of such deaths over the previous two decades.According to the CDC, a measles outbreak is defined as three or more related cases. So far in 2025, at least 12 such outbreaks have been identified. Besides the large cluster in West Texas, other states experiencing outbreaks include Ohio, with over 30 reported cases, as well as Montana and Michigan.The rising numbers have prompted Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. to call for the CDC to reassess treatments for measles and other infectious diseases. As the outbreak continues to grow, public health officials urge Americans to stay vigilant and ensure they are up to date with MMR vaccinations

measles outbreak 2025: cases in us surpass 1,000, cdc to reassess treatments

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Autoimmune illnesses like rheumatoid arthritis (RA), lupus, and <span>systemic sclerosis</span> have long been famous for their creation of chronic inflammation and joint devastation, but new evidence is surfacing that these diseases are subtly damaging the heart—particularly among women. The study, reported in Circulation: Cardiovascular Quality and Outcomes, estimated that women who have these disorders are at 50% higher risk of heart disease-related death than men. Although progress has been made in treating autoimmune diseases, the cardiovascular dangers they pose—especially to women—are underdiagnosed and undertreated.

Autoimmune illnesses are much more common in women. Almost twice to three times as many women have RA compared to men, and with lupus, it is nine times as many. Systemic sclerosis, characterized by tightening of the skin and possible damage to internal organs, also occurs more often in women.

The higher cardiovascular death rate in women with these diseases is not just a statistical coincidence. Dr. Heba Wassif, Director of Cardio-Rheumatology at Cleveland Clinic and senior author of the study, highlights that the burden of cardiovascular disease in immune-mediated inflammatory conditions is both substantial and disproportionately impacts women. This prompts important questions about how autoimmune-driven inflammation specifically affects women's cardiovascular health—and why their risks have been so historically underestimated.

In perhaps the most thorough analysis yet, scientists sifted through data on over 281,000 deaths attributed to RA, lupus, and systemic sclerosis between 1999 and 2020. More than 127,000 of those were from heart complications.

While overall mortality rates for heart disease fell—from 3.9 to 2.1 per 100,000 among women and from 1.7 to 1.2 among men—the gap between men and women narrowed only slightly: women continued to die from heart disease at disproportionately higher rates.

Even more alarming, stroke and blocked arteries (atherosclerosis) became the leading killers of women, along with the stark rate of deaths due to irregular heart rhythms and cardiac arrest—over twice that of men.

<h2>How <span rel="noindex">Autoimmune Inflammation</span> Damages the Heart?</h2>

Autoimmune diseases induce the body to mistakenly attack its own tissues. In RA, the immune system assaults the synovium—the joint lining—leading to swelling, pain, and inflammation. But this inflammation does not end here. It can spread to essential organs, such as the heart, lungs, and blood vessels.

Chronic inflammation promotes the formation of plaque in arteries, damages the linings of blood vessels, and accelerates atherosclerosis—a key risk factor for heart attack and stroke. In addition, the systemic inflammation can provoke arrhythmias and worsen heart failure.

The same medications that treat autoimmune diseases—like corticosteroids and certain immunosuppressants—can also increase cardiovascular risks indirectly by elevating blood pressure, blood sugar, or cholesterol levels if not monitored carefully.

<h2>How Heart Diseases have Become a Leading Killer in Autoimmune Patients?</h2>

Dr. Issam Motairek, lead author of the study, points to a dramatic change in the perception of mortality among autoimmune patients. "There is a general belief that individuals with immune-mediated inflammatory diseases die mostly from infections or kidney disease," he said. "But our study found that one-third of deaths in this group were caused by cardiovascular disease."

This change points to an urgent necessity to rephrase the way we perceive autoimmune conditions—not only as musculoskeletal or cutaneous problems, but as inflammatory disorders of the whole body with lethal cardiovascular ramifications.

<h2>Ways to Control Autoimmune Flares to Keep Your Heart Safe</h2>

Most of this cardiovascular danger can be avoided. Here is the way in which women suffering from autoimmune disorders can actively shield their heart:

Early and recurrent cardiovascular screening – At the diagnosis of autoimmune disease, screening should be done by Dr. Wassif and then on a regular basis thereafter. This will include blood pressure, cholesterol, glucose levels, and inflammation markers.

Aggressive inflammation control – Treatment of RA or lupus early and effectively not only benefits the joints but also curtails systemic inflammation that can harm the heart.

Lifestyle interventions – Exercise, a heart-healthy diet, stress reduction, and smoking cessation are even more crucial in this group. Exercise may be difficult during flare-ups, but low-impact exercise such as walking or yoga can be helpful.

Weight control – Achy joints and fatigue can reduce mobility, promoting weight gain. But obesity itself is a principal cause of high blood pressure, diabetes, and heart disease—each of which multiplies the risks for autoimmune patients.

Collaborative working with healthcare providers – Rheumatologists, cardiologists, and primary care physicians must work in concert. An expert cardio-rheumatology team, such as at premier institutions like Cleveland Clinic, can provide individualized care.

Of all autoimmune conditions researched, rheumatoid arthritis carried the greatest risk of cardiovascular mortality. RA not only inflames joints—it can also cause damage to heart valves, inflammation of the heart muscle (myocarditis), and pericarditis (inflammation of the outer layer of the heart). In addition, RA is frequently accompanied by fatigue, low-grade fever, and decreased activity—all of which can conceal or exacerbate heart disease.

This seminal study should be an eye-opener for both patients and clinicians. It reinforces the need not to brush off symptoms such as palpitations, chest pain, shortness of breath, or fatigue in women with autoimmune diseases. It also highlights the imperative of greater gender-specific research and an overarching, preventive approach to autoimmune diseases—not merely for joint well-being, but for survival.

If you’re a woman living with an autoimmune inflammatory disease, protecting your heart isn't optional—it’s essential. Don’t wait for a cardiac symptom to speak up. Be your own advocate, and demand comprehensive cardiovascular care. Early detection, effective inflammation control, and lifestyle support can go a long way in reducing your risk—and adding years to your life.

heart health

women heath

autoimmune disease in women

rheumatoid arthritis heart risk

lupus heart complications

systemic sclerosis

women heart disease

autoimmune inflammation

cardiovascular risk factors

Autoimmune illnesses like rheumatoid arthritis (RA), lupus, and systemic sclerosis have long been famous for their creation of chronic inflammation and joint devastation, but new evidence is surfacing that these diseases are subtly damaging the heart—particularly among women. The study, reported in Circulation: Cardiovascular Quality and Outcomes, estimated that women who have these disorders are at 50% higher risk of heart disease-related death than men. Although progress has been made in treating autoimmune diseases, the cardiovascular dangers they pose—especially to women—are underdiagnosed and undertreated.Autoimmune illnesses are much more common in women. Almost twice to three times as many women have RA compared to men, and with lupus, it is nine times as many. Systemic sclerosis, characterized by tightening of the skin and possible damage to internal organs, also occurs more often in women.The higher cardiovascular death rate in women with these diseases is not just a statistical coincidence. Dr. Heba Wassif, Director of Cardio-Rheumatology at Cleveland Clinic and senior author of the study, highlights that the burden of cardiovascular disease in immune-mediated inflammatory conditions is both substantial and disproportionately impacts women. This prompts important questions about how autoimmune-driven inflammation specifically affects women's cardiovascular health—and why their risks have been so historically underestimated.In perhaps the most thorough analysis yet, scientists sifted through data on over 281,000 deaths attributed to RA, lupus, and systemic sclerosis between 1999 and 2020. More than 127,000 of those were from heart complications.While overall mortality rates for heart disease fell—from 3.9 to 2.1 per 100,000 among women and from 1.7 to 1.2 among men—the gap between men and women narrowed only slightly: women continued to die from heart disease at disproportionately higher rates.Even more alarming, stroke and blocked arteries (atherosclerosis) became the leading killers of women, along with the stark rate of deaths due to irregular heart rhythms and cardiac arrest—over twice that of men.How Autoimmune Inflammation Damages the Heart?Autoimmune diseases induce the body to mistakenly attack its own tissues. In RA, the immune system assaults the synovium—the joint lining—leading to swelling, pain, and inflammation. But this inflammation does not end here. It can spread to essential organs, such as the heart, lungs, and blood vessels.Chronic inflammation promotes the formation of plaque in arteries, damages the linings of blood vessels, and accelerates atherosclerosis—a key risk factor for heart attack and stroke. In addition, the systemic inflammation can provoke arrhythmias and worsen heart failure.The same medications that treat autoimmune diseases—like corticosteroids and certain immunosuppressants—can also increase cardiovascular risks indirectly by elevating blood pressure, blood sugar, or cholesterol levels if not monitored carefully.How Heart Diseases have Become a Leading Killer in Autoimmune Patients?Dr. Issam Motairek, lead author of the study, points to a dramatic change in the perception of mortality among autoimmune patients. "There is a general belief that individuals with immune-mediated inflammatory diseases die mostly from infections or kidney disease," he said. "But our study found that one-third of deaths in this group were caused by cardiovascular disease."This change points to an urgent necessity to rephrase the way we perceive autoimmune conditions—not only as musculoskeletal or cutaneous problems, but as inflammatory disorders of the whole body with lethal cardiovascular ramifications.Ways to Control Autoimmune Flares to Keep Your Heart SafeMost of this cardiovascular danger can be avoided. Here is the way in which women suffering from autoimmune disorders can actively shield their heart:Early and recurrent cardiovascular screening – At the diagnosis of autoimmune disease, screening should be done by Dr. Wassif and then on a regular basis thereafter. This will include blood pressure, cholesterol, glucose levels, and inflammation markers.Aggressive inflammation control – Treatment of RA or lupus early and effectively not only benefits the joints but also curtails systemic inflammation that can harm the heart.Lifestyle interventions – Exercise, a heart-healthy diet, stress reduction, and smoking cessation are even more crucial in this group. Exercise may be difficult during flare-ups, but low-impact exercise such as walking or yoga can be helpful.Weight control – Achy joints and fatigue can reduce mobility, promoting weight gain. But obesity itself is a principal cause of high blood pressure, diabetes, and heart disease—each of which multiplies the risks for autoimmune patients.Collaborative working with healthcare providers – Rheumatologists, cardiologists, and primary care physicians must work in concert. An expert cardio-rheumatology team, such as at premier institutions like Cleveland Clinic, can provide individualized care.Of all autoimmune conditions researched, rheumatoid arthritis carried the greatest risk of cardiovascular mortality. RA not only inflames joints—it can also cause damage to heart valves, inflammation of the heart muscle (myocarditis), and pericarditis (inflammation of the outer layer of the heart). In addition, RA is frequently accompanied by fatigue, low-grade fever, and decreased activity—all of which can conceal or exacerbate heart disease.This seminal study should be an eye-opener for both patients and clinicians. It reinforces the need not to brush off symptoms such as palpitations, chest pain, shortness of breath, or fatigue in women with autoimmune diseases. It also highlights the imperative of greater gender-specific research and an overarching, preventive approach to autoimmune diseases—not merely for joint well-being, but for survival.If you’re a woman living with an autoimmune inflammatory disease, protecting your heart isn't optional—it’s essential. Don’t wait for a cardiac symptom to speak up. Be your own advocate, and demand comprehensive cardiovascular care. Early detection, effective inflammation control, and lifestyle support can go a long way in reducing your risk—and adding years to your life.

women with autoimmune diseases face greater risk of deadly heart complications; how to protect yourself?

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