The Impact of Pro-Inflammatory Diets on Endothelial Dysfunction Markers in Rheumatoid Arthritis: A Meta-Analytic Approach
Abstract
Background: Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic inflammatory disease with vascular complications often linked to endothelial dysfunction markers ICAM-1 and VCAM-1. Pro-inflammatory diets may exacerbate RA progression, but their impact on these biomarkers remains unclear.
Objective: To systematically analyze and quantify the association between dietary factors worsening RA and circulating levels of ICAM-1 and VCAM-1 through meta-analysis.
Methods: Major databases (PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science) were searched for studies reporting dietary exposures linked with RA severity along with ICAM-1 or VCAM-1 measurements. Standardized mean differences (SMD) were pooled using random-effects models. Heterogeneity and risk of bias were assessed.
Results: A total of 39 studies including observational and interventional designs with diverse populations were analyzed. The pooled SMD for ICAM-1 was 0.81 (95% CI: 0.62 to 1.00, p < 0.001), and for VCAM-1 was 1.17 (95% CI: 0.73 to 1.61, p < 0.001), indicating significantly higher biomarker levels in RA patients consuming pro-inflammatory diets. Considerable heterogeneity was observed (I² = 83% for ICAM-1, 96% for VCAM-1). Subgroup analyses showed consistent effects across diet types and geographic regions.
Conclusions: This meta-analysis elucidates the significant influence of pro-inflammatory diet on endothelial dysfunction biomarkers in RA, highlighting potential targets for dietary intervention to mitigate vascular risk.
How to Cite
Vanshika Sabharwal1, Sushila Kaura, "The Impact of Pro-Inflammatory Diets on Endothelial Dysfunction Markers in Rheumatoid Arthritis: A Meta-Analytic Approach", Vol. 3, Issue 7, 10-10-2025, pp. 10-22.
