Glucocorticoids (GCs) are widely used to treat inflammatory and autoimmune diseases, yet long-term exposure may increase the risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD). To summarize and evaluate the findings of van der Valk et al. (2024), who examined the association between chronic glucocorticoid therapy and incident cardiovascular events. A structured review of the original cohort study, including assessments of glucocorticoid dose, duration, and cardiovascular outcomes. Long-term GC exposure was associated with significantly increased CVD risk, including coronary artery disease, heart failure, atrial fibrillation, stroke, and MACE. A clear  relationship was observed, and the association remained significant after adjusting for multiple confounders. Chronic GC use independently increases cardiovascular risk, even at low doses. Careful prescribing, monitoring, and cardiovascular risk assessment are essential.

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van der Valk E., et al. (2024). Long-term glucocorticoid exposure and incident cardiovascular disease.

Deng et al. (2023). The role of glucocorticoids in increasing cardiovascular risk: systematic review and meta-analysis.

Crawford et al. (2019). Morning plasma cortisol as a cardiovascular risk factor.

Tsai et al. (2024). Stress hormones and cardiovascular disease: updated meta-analysis.

Lee et al. (2024). Genetically predicted cortisol and chronic conditions: a Mendelian randomization study.