Blood Pressure Intervention for Rheumatoid Arthritis
Trial Summary
What is the purpose of this trial?
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a autoimmune disease associated with an increased risk of developing coronary artery disease (CAD) and premature death, particularly in Black patients. Traditional CAD risk factors like hypertension (HTN) are both very common and poorly controlled among Black RA patients. Disparities in RA disease activity further increase the risk of CAD in this population. Black patients face significant barriers when seeking RA care, and the investigators suspect similar challenges affect HTN care in this population. The goals of this project are to identify and address barriers to HTN care in patients with RA to reduce disparities in HTN and CAD outcomes for Black RA patients. Interviews with Black RA patients, rheumatology providers, and primary care providers in the Duke University Health System will be conducted to describe barriers to HTN care in Black RA patients. Interviews will focus on access to care, patient-provider communication, coordination of care, and the challenges of managing HTN in patients with RA. These interviews will help us to develop an intervention that will focus on improving uncontrolled HTN in Black RA patients. The investigators plan to do this by empowering Black RA patients to actively participate in their HTN care, improving patient-provider communication, and improving coordination between primary care and rheumatology providers. If successful, our intervention has the potential to reduce rates of CAD and associated death for Black RA patients.
Do I need to stop my current medications for this trial?
The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. It focuses on improving hypertension care for Black patients with rheumatoid arthritis, so it's best to discuss your medications with the trial team.
What data supports the effectiveness of the blood pressure intervention treatment for rheumatoid arthritis?
The research highlights that managing blood pressure is crucial for rheumatoid arthritis patients due to their increased risk of cardiovascular disease. While specific data on the effectiveness of the blood pressure intervention treatment is not provided, controlling blood pressure is generally beneficial in reducing cardiovascular risks in these patients.12345
How does the blood pressure intervention treatment for rheumatoid arthritis differ from other treatments?
This treatment is unique because it targets both blood pressure control and inflammation, which are important in managing rheumatoid arthritis and reducing cardiovascular risk. It may involve the use of renin-angiotensin-system (RAS) inhibitors, which have a dual effect of lowering blood pressure and providing anti-inflammatory benefits, potentially offering protection against heart attacks in this patient group.12367
Eligibility Criteria
This trial is for Black or African American adults over 18 with uncontrolled high blood pressure and rheumatoid arthritis, who are receiving care from the Duke Health System. It's not open to those under 18, other races, people without RA and hypertension, pregnant women, prisoners, or anyone unable to consent due to cognitive impairment.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Intervention Development
Interviews with Black RA patients, rheumatology providers, and primary care providers to describe barriers to HTN care and develop an intervention
Blood Pressure Monitoring
Participants use a home blood pressure monitor and record values at least three times per week for 3 months
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after the intervention
Treatment Details
Interventions
- Blood pressure intervention arm
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Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Duke University
Lead Sponsor
National Institute on Minority Health and Health Disparities (NIMHD)
Collaborator