Atrial Fibrillation
Articles tagged with Atrial Fibrillation
Both very low and very high heart rates are significantly associated with stroke risk, novel study finds
A new study suggests that both very low and very high resting heart rates are associated with an increased risk of stroke. The research found a U-shaped pattern, with stroke risk lowest at heart rates of 60-69 bpm and highest at below 50 bpm or above 90 bpm.
Validation study from Mass General Brigham reveals new tool can predict patients’ genetic risk of eight cardiovascular conditions
Researchers developed a new polygenic risk score (PRS) that estimates a person's inherited risk for eight common cardiovascular conditions. The test combines information from many genetic variants and evaluates a person's risk for coronary artery disease, atrial fibrillation, type 2 diabetes, and more.
Innovative procedure outperforms drugs for advanced atrial fibrillation
A minimally invasive catheter ablation procedure has been shown to provide substantial benefits for patients with advanced forms of atrial fibrillation. By targeting faulty electrical signaling in the heart, the procedure can lead to improved control of the disease and reduced risk of serious adverse events.
Serum neurofilament light chain and cardiovascular outcomes in patients with atrial fibrillation
Patients with atrial fibrillation have a higher risk of adverse cardiovascular events, including stroke, heart attack, and cardiac arrest. Serum neurofilament light chain levels can serve as a biomarker for cardiovascular risk in these patients.
Are heart failure and atrial fibrillation the same disease?
A new study finds that heart failure and atrial fibrillation share similar genetic and molecular mechanisms, suggesting a more nuanced understanding of these two conditions. The research reveals that the pathological response involves multiple cell types communicating with each other, leading to a fundamental shift in how atrial fibril...
Catheter ablation and oral anticoagulation for secondary stroke prevention in atrial fibrillation
A recent study found that standard therapy plus catheter ablation did not significantly reduce the risk of primary composite end point in patients with atrial fibrillation and a recent stroke history. The observed event rate was lower than anticipated, suggesting underpowered detection of clinically meaningful differences.
Sleep loss linked to higher atrial fibrillation risk in working-age adults
A new multicenter study by Kumamoto University and National Cerebral and Cardiovascular Center found that working-age adults with shorter sleep durations are more likely to develop atrial fibrillation. In contrast, retirees showed no significant association between sleep duration and AF risk.
Persistent inequity in survival after atrial fibrillation
A new Danish study reveals that social inequities in survival after atrial fibrillation have remained unchanged over the past 20 years. Individuals with low income, education, and social relationships live significantly shorter lives than those with high-income backgrounds.
New study overturns assumptions about AFib treatment in sleep apnea patients
A new Tulane University study suggests that catheter ablation delivers major benefits for patients diagnosed with both atrial fibrillation and obstructive sleep apnea, significantly lowering the risks of heart failure and death. The study found a 40% drop in major cardiovascular events and a 70% decline in all-cause mortality.
A new strategy for treating atrial fibrillation: Targeting the TRPC3 channel
Researchers at Toho University discovered that pyrazole-3 inhibits the TRPC3 channel, preventing atrial fibrillation persistence. This finding suggests targeting TRPC3 channels as a promising therapeutic approach for atrial fibrillation and related cardiovascular diseases.
Nonlinear association between systemic immune-inflammation index and in-hospital mortality in critically ill patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and atrial fibrillation: a cross-sectional study
A cross-sectional study investigated the relationship between systemic immune-inflammation index (SII) and in-hospital mortality in ICU patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and atrial fibrillation (AF). The results showed a nonlinear association between SII and in-hospital mortality, with higher SII values associa...
Genetic testing trifecta predicts risk of sudden cardiac death and arrhythmia
A new genetic risk score combines rare and common gene variants with non-coding genome information to predict arrhythmia risk. This comprehensive framework can be applied to other genetically influenced diseases like cancer and Parkinson's Disease.
One month of clot prevention after a stent was as effective as year-long course for AFib
A new study found that using a simplified clot-preventing medication regimen for one month after stent placement in adults with atrial fibrillation is equally safe and effective as a standard year-long treatment regimen. This approach may help reduce bleeding risk associated with the medications while maintaining stroke, heart attack, ...
Medication still better than procedure for some irregular heartbeat conditions
A new study found that standard medical care, including blood thinners, is the better choice for older people with irregular heart rhythms who are at high risk of stroke and bleeding. The catheter-based procedure was non-inferior to medical therapy in reducing stroke risk but caused more bleeding in higher-risk patients.
Patients with peripheral arterial disease who also have atrial fibrillation face significantly higher risk for cardiac events including death
A study found that patients with peripheral arterial disease (PAD) who also have atrial fibrillation (AFib) are at a significantly higher risk of major adverse cardiovascular events, including heart attack, stroke, and death. The presence of AFib nearly doubles the risk compared to PAD alone.
Diabetes drug reduced irregular heartbeat events in overweight/obese adults with AFib
Researchers found that taking metformin in addition to standard care after catheter ablation reduced episodes of atrial fibrillation in people with obesity. The study suggests that lifestyle and risk factor modification efforts can be aided by metformin, and future studies are needed to confirm these findings.
Ablation reduces stroke risk for AFib and may remove need for some types of blood thinners
A new study suggests that catheter ablation can reduce the risk of stroke in people with atrial fibrillation (AFib) and may even allow them to stop taking blood thinners. The study found that long-term oral anticoagulation is not necessary after successful ablation in patients with moderate to high stroke risk.
Cup of coffee a day may not be harmful for some adults with AFib and could lower episodes
Adults with atrial fibrillation who drank a daily cup of coffee were 39% less likely to have an irregular heart rhythm episode compared to those who avoided all caffeinated products. The preliminary study results suggest that caffeinated coffee may not be responsible for raising the risk of AFib and may even reduce it.
Assessing heart-pumping glitch may reduce stroke risk in adults with heart muscle disease
Researchers have found that atrial electromechanical dissociation (AEMD) can predict stroke risk in people with transthyretin amyloid cardiomyopathy, even when the heart rhythm appears normal. A non-invasive assessment tool may help identify those at increased risk and guide earlier conversations about preventive strategies.
Lehigh University team develops computational model to guide neurostimulation therapy for atrial fibrillation
The Lehigh University team created a computational model to predict the hemodynamic response of patients with AFib, helping tailor neurostimulation dosages. The model validated against clinical data and predicted accurate effects on blood pressure, heart rate, and stroke volume.
Adverse pregnancy outcomes and long-term risk of atrial fibrillation
A large national cohort study found associations between adverse pregnancy outcomes and increased risk of atrial fibrillation up to 46 years later. Women with these outcomes require early preventive actions and long-term clinical follow-up.
Long-term continuous monitoring of new-onset atrial fibrillation after coronary artery bypass grafting
Researchers monitored new-onset atrial fibrillation after CABG to assess long-term risk and guide treatment recommendations. The study found very low AF burden in patients, challenging current guideline recommendations for oral anticoagulation.
Living in a food desert doubles stroke risk for patients with atrial fibrillation, study finds
Patients with atrial fibrillation who live in neighborhoods with poor access to full-service grocery stores face sharply higher odds of stroke and death. Food desert residence is linked to a 2.21-times higher risk of ischemic stroke and a 3.84-times higher risk of death over five years.
New research finds 62% of AFib patients were unaware of the condition before diagnosis
New research from the American Heart Association reveals that most people with atrial fibrillation (AFib) are unaware of the condition before being diagnosed. The study found that AFib patients reported experiencing an average of three symptoms before receiving a diagnosis, highlighting the importance of recognizing early warning signs...
Protecting your beating heart
A team of researchers is using NCSA resources to simulate the long-term progression of atrial fibrillation, a type of irregular heartbeat. By modeling the heart's electrical activity, they have uncovered a vicious cycle where adaptations to maintain calcium balance lead to continued arrhythmias and eventually a permanent condition.
Exercise rehab lessens severity, frequency + recurrence of irregular heart rhythm (AF)
Pooled data analysis shows exercise-based cardiac rehabilitation significantly improves AF symptom severity, frequency, and length, while reducing risk of recurrence. It also enhances exercise capacity and mental health without adverse effects.
Scar tissue in athletes’ hearts tied to higher risk of dangerous cardiac rhythms
A new study found that scar tissue in the heart of healthy male endurance athletes aged 50 or older may increase their risk of abnormal heart rhythms and sudden cardiac death. The research used magnetic resonance imaging and ECG recorders to track the participants' heart activity over two years.
Early blood-thinning treatment safe and effective for stroke patients
A new study published in The Lancet found that starting direct oral anticoagulants within four days of a stroke significantly reduces the risk of another stroke due to bleeding or artery blockage. Early treatment also did not increase the risk of bleeding into the brain.
Blood thinners called factor Xa inhibitors lower heart risk in elderly with atrial fibrillation
A new study found that patients using factor Xa inhibitors experienced significantly fewer cardiovascular problems than those on other anticoagulants. Researchers followed over 1,000 patients aged 80 and above for up to five years, revealing lower rates of heart failure, artery disease, and cardiovascular death.
AI-generated ‘Synthetic scarred hearts’ aid atrial fibrillation treatment
Researchers developed an AI model that creates synthetic fibrosis patterns to aid in treating atrial fibrillation. The system accurately mimics real heart scarring and enables clinicians to test different treatment approaches on digital models before performing procedures.
Scientists unveil starfish-inspired wearable tech for heart monitoring
The device uses AI technology to detect potential heart problems and provides real-time health insights. It has multiple points touching the skin near the heart, allowing for more accurate tracking even during movement.
Atrial fibrillation diagnosed in midlife is linked to a 21% increased risk of dementia at any age and a 36% higher risk of early-onset dementia
Research shows that atrial fibrillation (AF) is linked to a higher risk of dementia, with a 21% increased risk at any age and a 36% increased risk for early-onset dementia. The association was strongest in younger adults and lost statistical significance in older adults over 70.
Finerenone and atrial fibrillation in heart failure
A study published in JAMA Cardiology found that finerenone was effective in treating heart failure, regardless of the presence of atrial fibrillation. New-onset atrial fibrillation was linked to a substantially increased risk of adverse outcomes.
Combination of hypertension and atrial fibrillation is a ticking time bomb – experts call for simultaneous screening
A recent expert review highlights the strong link between hypertension and atrial fibrillation, which can lead to thousands of strokes. Controlling high blood pressure could significantly reduce the likelihood of developing atrial fibrillation.
Gasdermin D emerges as a potential therapeutic target for atrial fibrillation
Researchers found that gasdermin D promotes atrial arrhythmogenesis by facilitating the formation of pores in cell membranes and releasing cytokines. A mitochondrial-targeted therapy approach may prevent AF triggering, positioning gasdermin D as a promising therapeutic target.
Catheter ablation as the first-line therapy for atrial fibrillation: update on evidence and clinical implications
New research updates treatment strategies for patients with atrial fibrillation, emphasizing catheter ablation as a viable first-line therapy. The study assesses the overall treatment hierarchy, including its role in heart failure patients.
AI model predicting two-year risk of common heart disorder can easily be integrated into healthcare workflow
A new AI prediction model, UNAFIED, uses machine learning to predict whether a patient has or might develop detectable AFib within two years. The non-invasive approach provides a practical option for proactive screening of patients at elevated risk for AFib.
Long-term outcomes of concomitant Cox-Maze III procedure in patients with aortic valve diseases and preoperative atrial fibrillation
The concomitant Cox-Maze procedure with aortic valve replacement in patients with atrial fibrillation showed lower rates of atrial fibrillation and higher anticoagulation discontinuation rates. Long-term outcomes were favorable, with no significant increase in early mortality or morbidity.
Improving heart healthcare in rural Chinese villages
A clinical trial in rural China shows a telemedicine-based, village doctor-led care model significantly enhanced atrial fibrillation management. The study found lower rates of major cardiovascular events and higher adherence to evidence-based guidelines.
Robot faster than physicians at spotting side effects
A new study at the University of Gothenburg found that a software robot can detect side effects faster than physicians during amiodarone treatment for cardiac arrhythmia. The robot also recommends appropriate intervals between lab tests, aligning with standard practices and reducing unnecessary testing.
Older patients can inadvertently be put at risk when they are taken off blood-thinning drugs
A study by University of Bath researchers found that stopping anticoagulants for patients aged 75 and over does not significantly affect the risk of major bleeding, but increases the risk of serious events like stroke and death. This highlights the need for clinicians to carefully consider the risks of stopping anticoagulation therapy ...
Bleeding risk with apixaban and dabigatran similar to aspirin
A systematic review found that therapeutic-dose apixaban and dabigatran have bleeding risks comparable to low-dose aspirin, while rivaroxaban has higher rates of major bleeding. The study aims to help clinicians balance anticoagulant benefits with bleeding risks for patients with atrial fibrillation.
AI is better than humans at analyzing long-term ECG recordings
A study published in Nature Medicine found that AI algorithm 'DeepRhythmAI' outperformed human technicians in analyzing long-term ECG recordings, detecting severe arrhythmias with 14 times fewer missed diagnoses. The AI algorithm achieved near-perfect sensitivity and ruled out severe arrhythmia with 99.9% confidence.
Research unveils new strategies to tackle atrial fibrillation, a condition linked to stroke and dementia risks
A recent study explores the connection between chronic inflammation and arrhythmia development, identifying potential therapeutic targets for preventing and treating AF. The research team discovered that interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β) triggers atrial fibrillation by activating its receptors on macrophages.
240-year-old drug could save UK National Health Service £100 million a year treating common heart rhythm disorder
A new study from the University of Birmingham found that digoxin is more effective than beta-blockers in reducing adverse events and hospital admissions for older patients with atrial fibrillation. This could lead to significant cost savings for the UK National Health Service, estimated at £102 million per year.
Regular dental flossing may lower risk of stroke from blood clots, irregular heartbeats
A preliminary study found that regular dental flossing may lower the risk of stroke caused by blood clots and irregular heartbeats. The study, which followed over 6,000 participants for 25 years, found a significant reduction in irregular heartbeats among those who flossed regularly.
Study shows anti-clotting drug reduced bleeding events in patients with atrial fibrillation
The study found that a new class of anticoagulants, Factor XI inhibitors, significantly reduced bleeding events compared to standard-of-care treatment. The researchers report that abelacimab, a Factor XI inhibitor, reduced bleeding by 62% in patients with atrial fibrillation.
Drinking coffee may help prevent mental decline in people with atrial fibrillation
A new study found that drinking up to five cups of coffee daily may improve cognitive function in people with atrial fibrillation. The study, published in the Journal of the American Heart Association, suggests that coffee consumption may offset the increased risk of cognitive impairment associated with AFib.
Atrial Fibrillation: A Review
The review article summarizes the current evidence on atrial fibrillation's epidemiology, pathophysiology, diagnosis, and management. Research found a significant increase in AF incidence and prevalence over time, particularly among older adults and men, with diseases like hypertension and valvular heart disease associated with AF.
New effort to improve care for hidden heart disease
The American Heart Association has launched a new three-year initiative to standardize HCM systems of care and support better management of the disease. The initiative aims to overcome gaps in care for hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, leading to delayed treatment, increased risk of complications, and preventable death.
U of M researchers find connection between blood protein and increased heart failure risk
A recent study published in Circulation found a correlation between lower levels of coagulation factor XI and an increased risk of heart failure. The research, conducted on two large community-based cohorts, also linked lower factor XI levels to a greater likelihood of atrial fibrillation and worse heart function.
Lifestyle & risk factor changes improved AFib symptoms, not burden, over standard care
Research suggests that lifestyle modifications and metformin do not improve atrial fibrillation (AFib) burden or progression when compared to standard care. In contrast, weight loss and exercise resulted in decreased AFib symptoms in patients with the condition.
Pulmonary vein isolation with optimized linear ablation vs pulmonary vein isolation alone for persistent AF
A new study published in JAMA found that pulmonary vein isolation combined with ethanol infusion of the vein of Marshall significantly improved freedom from atrial arrhythmias within 12 months. This approach outperformed traditional pulmonary vein isolation alone in reducing AF recurrence rates.
New study finds atrial fibrillation common in newly diagnosed heart failure patients, and makes prognosis significantly worse
A new study by Intermountain Health found that 40% of newly diagnosed heart failure patients also have atrial fibrillation, leading to poorer outcomes. Patients with both conditions require more aggressive treatment and regular screenings.
Partial cardiac denervation to prevent postoperative atrial fibrillation after coronary artery bypass grafting
A randomized clinical trial found partial cardiac denervation effective in preventing postoperative atrial fibrillation after isolated coronary artery bypass grafting without additional complications. This suggests partial cardiac denervation as a viable option for preventing postoperative atrial fibrillation after CABG.
Blood thinners didn’t reduce cognitive decline in adults 65 and younger with AFib
A recent study published at the American Heart Association's Scientific Sessions 2024 found that blood thinners did not reduce cognitive decline in adults younger than age 65 who have atrial fibrillation (AFib) but no other risk factors for stroke. The trial included over 1,200 participants and followed them for an average of 3.7 years...
New research shows relationship between heart shape and risk of cardiovascular disease
Researchers discovered a relationship between heart shape and cardiovascular disease risk through advanced 3D imaging and machine learning. The study found 45 specific areas in the human genome linked to different heart shapes, including 14 previously unknown influencers.
While more is better, even moderate amounts of exercise may reduce risk for common heart condition
A new study found that even moderate amounts of exercise can reduce the risk of atrial fibrillation, a common heart condition. The research, led by NYU Langone Health, used data from over 6,000 participants and showed that those with higher physical activity levels had a lower risk of developing the condition.
100⁰ F temps may be linked to irregular heartbeat in those with implanted defibrillators
Researchers found that exposure to temperatures of 100°F (38°C) or higher may triple atrial fibrillation episodes in people with implanted defibrillators. The study emphasizes the importance of preventing heat-induced stress and taking precautions to stay cool and hydrated, particularly for vulnerable populations.