Atrial fibrillation is one of the most common heart rhythm disorders, affecting millions of people worldwide. A new study by researchers at the University of California, San Francisco, reveals that it may be up to three times more common than previously thought.
The experts presented their findings in a new study, which was recently published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology. The researchers estimated that the number of people suffering from atrial fibrillation in the US could be at least 10.5 million, which is about 5% of the adult population.
Until now, atrial fibrillation has been associated with a condition that affects the elderly. However, data indicate that younger people are also affected. This may be due to medical advances and increasingly better tools for detecting this type of disease even at an early stage. The fact is commented on by Jean Jacques Noubiap, a physician and doctor of medicine, specialising in global cardiovascular health and first author of this study:
'It is likely that the increasing number of atrial fibrillation diagnoses is due to improvements in the available methods of detecting the disease. More frequent use of care for patients with various comorbidities, such as hypertension and diabetes, may increase the likelihood of detecting AF during regular medical visits.
Atrial fibrillation only affects older people?, photo: panthermedia
However, the most significant factor contributing to the increase in AF cases is the ageing population. In addition, better diagnostic methods and the increased survival rate of people with AF contribute to the disease being diagnosed more frequently, which also increases its recognition in the community, Noubiap adds.
How can the risk of atrial fibrillation be reduced? Making some simple lifestyle changes and healthy habits can be key, so doctors recommend:
- implementing a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean proteins, while avoiding excessive amounts of sugar, salt and unhealthy fats,
- limiting alcohol and caffeine consumption,
- quitting smoking,
- daily physical activity for a minimum of 30 minutes,
- managing stress effectively, e.g. through relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation or yoga,
- ensuring 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night,
- monitoring heart health, especially if there is a family history of heart disease,
- drinking plenty of water to stay hydrated.
Younger and younger patients are experiencing heart problems, photo: panthermedia
Atrial fibrillation significantly increases the risk of death, stroke, heart failure, myocardial infarction, chronic kidney disease and dementia, and leads to a reduced quality of life, especially when it is not diagnosed and treated, explains Noubiap. This is why it is crucial to detect and then treat it appropriately to prevent the complications of AF, the scientist adds.