Endothelial dysfunction in RA can be assessed by measuring circulating soluble adhesive molecules such as E-selectin, P-selectin, ICAM-1, VCAM-1, and flow-mediated arterial dilatation, all of which are suggested for use in CV risk assessment; this observation is supported by a meta-analysis of 20 studies including 852 patients with RA [83]. This evidence concerns the gene VCAM1 and rheumatoid arthritis.