Personalized Care Focusing on Lifestyle Factors May Decrease Atrial Fibrillation Risk
Atrial fibrillation (AFib) is the most common type of irregular heartbeat, affecting a global population of over . This heart condition involves an abnormal rhythm of the left upper heart chamber, which can trigger blood clots that could travel to the brain, resulting in a stroke.
Apart from the known risk factors of cardiovascular health like physical activity, diabetes, obesity, and smoking, AFib also has associations with chronic conditions such as cardiovascular, respiratory, metabolic, and mental health conditions [1]. These factors often coexist and amplify the risk of AFib, requiring a multidisciplinary, individualized approach to management.
A recent review highlighted the role of various lifestyle factors, comorbidities, and socioeconomic factors in AFib [1]. The comprehensive care of AFib goes beyond medication for stroke prevention and rhythm or rate control. In addition to medications, blood thinners (anticoagulants) can help reduce the risk of blood clot formation and stroke. NOACs, as opposed to drugs that target vitamin K, have become the first-line treatment for AFib [1].
Engaging in regular moderate-to-vigorous physical activity can lower the risk of AFib incidence and improve its management [2]. Physical inactivity, obesity, smoking, and excessive alcohol consumption increase AFib risk [2]. Achieving weight loss can decrease the likelihood of AFib-related complications [2].
Obesity, high blood pressure, diabetes, and hypertension are all risk factors for both AFib and stroke [1]. Avoiding high sodium intake, limiting saturated and trans fats, reducing added sugar consumption, and maintaining a heart-healthy diet can reduce the risk of AFib [5].
In addition to traditional risk factors, stress and poor sleep conditions can also contribute to cardiovascular health issues [1]. Mental health disorders like stress and depression are associated with an increased risk of AFib [1]. Optimizing these risk factors is vital for minimizing AFib and its complications in the long term [1].
Latest research emphasizes the importance of individualized and personalized care for AFib management due to the varying risk factors among patients [1]. Identifying and controlling the modifiable risk factors is crucial for effective AFib management [1]. Dr. Stephen Tang, MD, a board-certified cardiac electrophysiologist, explains that addressing these additional factors is essential in controlling AFib [1].
When lifestyle modifications and medications are ineffective in managing AFib, invasive procedures like catheter ablation may be necessary to restore a normal heart rhythm [3]. Early diagnosis, prompt treatment, and consistent management of comorbid conditions are crucial to improving outcomes in AFib patients [1].
- Atrial fibrillation (AFib) is a heart condition that can lead to a stroke, and it affects a global population of over 33 million people.
- Apart from traditional risk factors of cardiovascular health, AFib is associated with chronic conditions like cardiovascular, respiratory, metabolic, and mental health conditions.
- A comprehensive approach to AFib management includes medications, blood thinners, and a focus on lifestyle factors, comorbidities, and socioeconomic factors.
- Engaging in regular moderate-to-vigorous physical activity can lower the risk of AFib and improve its management, while physical inactivity, obesity, smoking, and excessive alcohol consumption increase AFib risk.
- Obesity, high blood pressure, diabetes, and hypertension are risk factors for both AFib and stroke; avoiding high sodium intake, limiting saturated and trans fats, reducing added sugar consumption, and maintaining a heart-healthy diet can reduce the risk of AFib.
- In addition to traditional risk factors, stress and poor sleep conditions can contribute to cardiovascular health issues, and mental health disorders like stress and depression are associated with an increased risk of AFib.
- There is a need for individualized and personalized care for AFib management due to varying risk factors among patients, and addressing additional factors like stress, mental health, and lifestyle factors is essential for controlling AFib.
