There are tons of studies that show the association between chronic inflammatory conditions (such as RA) and premature CAD. And, yes, suppressing inflammation from RA reduces CAD.

An interesting question. Several studies have provided evidence that there may be a close link between certain conditions such as obesity and systemic chronic low grade inflammation. Therefore, all organ systems and cell types are thought to be susceptible to the development of inflammation-associated diseases including CAD as noted above by Patompong. Other significant serum markers of systemic low grade inflammation may include pro-inflammatory cytokines such as IL-6, IL-1beta, and IL-18.

Please look at our special issues. There are some tricky points about chronically low grade inflammation.

http://www.hindawi.com/journals/mi/si/543982/

http://www.hindawi.com/journals/mi/si/268017/