Cardiovascular risk in inflammatory bowel disease: focus on lipids and visceral adipose tissue
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By
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Eva Karaskova
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David Friedecky
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David Kleparnik
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Adela Palkovska
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Radana Brumarova
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David Karasek
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June 19, 2026
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Clinical Scorecard: Cardiovascular Risk Associated with Inflammatory Bowel Disease: Emphasis on Lipid Levels and Visceral Fat Distribution
At a Glance
| Category | Detail |
|---|
| Condition | Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) |
| Key Mechanisms | Chronic systemic inflammation, endothelial dysfunction, dysbiosis, and lipid abnormalities. |
| Target Population | Patients with IBD, particularly younger individuals and those with active disease. |
| Care Setting | Clinical assessment and management of cardiovascular risk in patients with IBD. |
Key Highlights
- Increased risk of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) in IBD patients.
- Lipid paradox: reduced circulating lipid levels with increased cardiovascular risk.
- Chronic inflammation and dysbiosis contribute to cardiovascular complications.
- Disease activity correlates with higher cardiovascular risk.
- Traditional risk calculators may underestimate cardiovascular risk in IBD.
Guideline-Based Recommendations
Diagnosis
- Assess cardiovascular risk using tools that integrate inflammatory burden.
Management
- Control disease activity and minimize corticosteroid exposure.
- Aggressive treatment of modifiable cardiovascular risk factors.
Monitoring & Follow-up
- Monitor lipid levels and cardiovascular health in IBD patients.
Risks
- Increased risk of major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) during active disease.
Patient & Prescribing Data
Individuals with Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis.
Optimization of anti-inflammatory therapy may improve cardiovascular outcomes.
Clinical Best Practices
- Integrate cardiovascular risk assessment into routine IBD management.
- Educate patients on the cardiovascular risks associated with IBD.
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