The risk of heart problems in people with rheumatoid arthritis is about as high as for people with type 2 diabetes, according to a new study.

Researchers from France found that 8.6 percent people with arthritis had a heart problem, about double the rate found in the general population.

In a news release, one author said the study and another that confirmed the rates were similar to people with diabetes show that doctors treating arthritis patients need to be aware of the elevated heart risks.