People with diabetes are at higher risk of atrial fibrillation
Researchers have linked diabetes to a 40% greater risk of developing atrial fibrillation, with the risk rising for longer duration of diabetes and less controlled blood sugar levels.
Atrial Fibrillation
Articles tagged with Atrial Fibrillation
New arrhythmia drug provides only modest efficacy and no clear safety benefits say researchers
Researchers at Cedars-Sinai Heart Institute conclude that dronedarone is only moderately effective and lacks clear safety benefits. The review assesses data from the FDA approval process and compares dronedarone to amiodarone, a commonly used treatment for atrial fibrillation.
SourceCedars-Sinai Medical Center·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateApr 5, 2010
'AFib Educator' app and widget offers patient dialogue tool for complex cardiovascular disease
The AFib Educator app and desktop widget provide detailed, animated diagrams of the human heart to help patients understand atrial fibrillation. Healthcare professionals can share resources with patients, including facts about signs, symptoms, prevalence, and risks, as well as links to additional information.
Blacks more likely to have undiagnosed key stroke risk factor, have higher stroke incidence
A study found that blacks are more likely to have an undiagnosed key risk factor for stroke and have a higher stroke incidence. The research also revealed significant racial and geographic disparities in stroke incidence and treatment, with blacks being less likely to receive recommended treatment to prevent stroke.
Blacks less likely to know they have heart condition or to use treatment for it, says Mayo Clinic
A nationwide study found that blacks are substantially less likely than whites to know they have atrial fibrillation or use warfarin as treatment. This disparity could explain why the black population has a higher incidence of stroke and death from strokes compared to the white population.
When the heart gets out of step
A new gene, KCNN3, has been identified as a significant contributor to the risk of atrial fibrillation. This gene regulates potassium channels in the heart, which can be targeted for therapeutic intervention.
Common gene variant may increase risk for a type of cardiac arrhythmia
A common gene variant has been associated with an increased risk of lone atrial fibrillation, a type of irregular heartbeat that affects younger individuals without known heart disease. The genetic variation affects a protein involved in controlling the heart's electrical activity and may provide new drug targets for treatment.
High prevalence of AF found among cross-country skiers
A study of elite cross-country skiers reveals a high prevalence of atrial fibrillation, with rates significantly higher than in the general population. The study identified two key risk factors: slow heart rate at rest and large left atrium size, suggesting that genetic factors may play a role.
SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·JournalEuropean Journal of Cardiovascular Prevention & Rehabilitation·DateFeb 9, 2010
Atrial fibrillation treatment with catheter shows better results than drug therapy
Patients with symptomatic paroxysmal AF who didn't respond to antiarrhythmic drugs showed better outcomes with catheter ablation, achieving higher success rates in rhythm control and quality of life. Catheter ablation demonstrated a favorable safety profile, making it an attractive alternative for treating this condition.
New treatment hope by 'painting the colors of the heart'
Researchers at University of Leicester are developing innovative method to map and target abnormal electrical signals in the heart, benefiting millions with atrial fibrillation. This approach enables cardiologists to treat AF more accurately, potentially reducing need for second procedures.
Penn researchers describe cellular source of most common type of abnormal heart beat
Penn researchers identify a novel cellular source of atrial fibrillation, the most common type of abnormal heart beat, and suggest a more precise way to treat AF with reduced side effects.
SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateNov 4, 2009
Boston University School of Medicine's Framingham Heart Study receives $1M challenge grant
The Framingham Heart Study has received a $1M challenge grant to identify risk factors for developing atrial fibrillation. Researchers will use data from five major cohort studies, including the study's own long-term follow-up of over 10,000 participants.
New blood-thinning drug safer than rat poison
Dabigatran, a new blood-thinner, has been shown to be as effective as warfarin in preventing strokes and major bleeding, but with significantly fewer side effects. This finding could lead to a change in standard anticoagulant therapy.
Women with diabetes at increased risk for irregular heart rhythm
A new Kaiser Permanente study found that women with diabetes are 26% more likely to develop atrial fibrillation than non-diabetic women. The study involved nearly 35,000 patients over seven years and isolated the effect of diabetes as an independent risk factor for women.
Women with atrial fibrillation are at significantly higher risk of stroke and death compared to men
Research reveals women with atrial fibrillation are more likely to experience symptomatic attacks, have higher heart rates, and increased risk of stroke due to pooling of blood in the atria. A new gender-specific approach to therapy is recommended to prevent strokes and improve quality of life.
Health leaders issue recommendations to improve management of atrial fibrillation
The AF Stat Call to Action outlines critical issues and recommends priority actions in policy, education, management, and quality. The report aims to reduce the burden of atrial fibrillation by improving understanding, diagnosis, and management among all parties affected.
Irbesartan reduces heart failure in patients with quivering heart
Researchers found that irbesartan reduced the risk of heart failure complications and a combination of stroke and other events by 13-14% in patients with atrial fibrillation. The study also showed significant reductions in hospitalizations for cardiovascular reasons and days spent in hospital.
Atrial fibrillation: Drugs or ablation?
Atrial fibrillation is a common cardiac arrhythmia affecting over 3 million Europeans, with high mortality rates. Treatment strategies include chronic antiarrhythmic drug therapy and catheter ablation, both effective but with varying side effects and success rates.
New assessment quantifies risks and benefits of warfarin treatment for atrial fibrillation
Researchers found warfarin therapy reduces ischemic stroke risk but increases intracranial bleeding risk in patients with atrial fibrillation. Benefits of treatment are greatest for patients over 85 years old and those with multiple risk factors for stroke.
Dabigatran vs. warfarin as long-term anticoagulant therapy in atrial fibrillation
The RE-LY study found dabigatran to be more effective than warfarin in preventing stroke in patients with atrial fibrillation. The higher dose of dabigatran significantly reduces stroke risk by 34% compared to warfarin, while the lower dose has a similar effect but with less major bleeding.
High caffeine intake can lead to arrhythmias
A study found that high coffee consumption is associated with an increased risk of atrial fibrillation, a common arrhythmia. Patients with high caffeine intake and low Mediterranean diet adherence had higher rates of arrhythmias, suggesting a potential link between coffee consumption and cardiovascular disease.
Blood thinner causes stroke in some dialysis patients
A study found that warfarin may increase the risk of stroke in dialysis patients with abnormal heart rhythms. Patients on dialysis who take warfarin are at a higher risk of stroke, particularly those whose blood is not monitored for warfarin levels after treatment.
SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalJournal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateAug 27, 2009
Tips from the American Journal of Pathology
Researchers have identified new targets for treating breast cancer metastasis by inhibiting Brk protein expression. Additionally, a study on Wnk1 revealed its critical role in angiogenesis and heart development. Furthermore, drug abuse has been found to worsen HIV-associated neurocognitive disorders through dopamine signaling.
Device alternative to long-term warfarin therapy could be an option for patients with nonvalvular atrial fibrillation at risk of stroke
The PROTECT AF study found that percutaneous closure of the left atrial appendage (LAA) is a viable option for stroke prevention in patients with non-valvular atrial fibrillation. The device-based approach showed non-inferior efficacy to long-term warfarin therapy, but higher safety event rates.
Atrial fibrillation linked to increased hospitalization in heart failure patients
Researchers at the University of Alabama at Birmingham found that atrial fibrillation significantly increases hospitalization due to worsening heart failure in patients not receiving beta-blockers. However, the risk of all-cause mortality was similar between those with and without atrial fibrillation.
Heart electrical conduction abnormality believed not to be serious may pose cardiovascular risks
A study of over 7,500 individuals found that first-degree atrioventricular block is associated with a two-fold increased risk of atrial fibrillation, a three-fold increased risk of pacemaker implantation, and a 1.4-fold increased risk of all-cause death. The researchers suggest that the natural history of this condition may not be as b...
Atrial fibrillation in endurance athletes still poses problems for sports cardiologists
Long-term endurance sport participation increases the incidence of cardiac arrhythmias, particularly atrial fibrillation. Research efforts are focused on preventing and treating arrhythmias through techniques like CPVA and deconditioning.
Enzyme doesn't act alone in atrial fibrillation
Researchers found that an overactive enzyme plays a role in atrial fibrillation, but does not act alone. The study revealed a synergy between the enzyme and a specific calcium channel mutation, which is necessary for arrhythmia development.
Mayo Clinic receives $48 million in grants to study catheter ablation for atrial fibrillation
Mayo Clinic is leading a six-year study to determine whether catheter ablation is more effective than drug therapy for treating atrial fibrillation. The trial will randomize patients over three years, examining effectiveness and safety of left atrial catheter ablation versus current state-of-the-art drug therapy.
Study makes first connection between heart disorder and Alzheimer's disease
Researchers at Intermountain Medical Center discovered a strong relationship between atrial fibrillation and the development of Alzheimer's disease in a study of over 37,000 patients. Patients with atrial fibrillation were 44% more likely to develop dementia than those without, with younger patients facing higher risks.
U study shows MRI-based method holds promise for predicting treatment outcomes in patients with AF
Researchers have found that a delayed-enhancement MRI method holds promise for predicting treatment outcomes and measuring disease progression in patients with atrial fibrillation. The study revealed that those with extensive scar tissue damage were at greater risk of AF recurrence after treatment.
Big men more susceptible to atrial fibrillation
A new study from the Sahlgrenska Academy reveals that big men are more susceptible to atrial fibrillation, a disturbance in the heart's rhythm. The risk of atrial fibrillation increases linearly with both body size and weight gain, putting larger men at higher risk.
Study finds link between atrial fibrillation and an increased risk of death in diabetic patients
A large-scale trial found that diabetic patients with atrial fibrillation have a significantly higher risk of death from cardiovascular causes. The study suggests that aggressive treatment with blood pressure-lowering drugs can reduce this risk, and highlights the importance of identifying undiagnosed AF in diabetic patients.
Kidney disease increases the risk of stroke in patients
A new study by Kaiser Permanente researchers found that chronic kidney disease independently increases the risk of ischemic stroke in patients with atrial fibrillation. Kidney function may provide an additional clue about how to best assess stroke risk and decide upon the best prevention strategy for patients with AF.
New predictive tool could be used to identify people at risk of atrial fibrillation
A new risk score has been developed to identify people at risk of atrial fibrillation in primary care, using clinical characteristics and echocardiographic measures. The tool was tested on 4,764 participants and showed good predictive value, with age being the strongest risk factor associated with atrial fibrillation.
Experimental antiarrhythmic drug reduces death rate in patients with atrial fibrillation
The ATHENA trial found that dronedarone reduced the incidence of cardiovascular-related hospitalisation or death by 24% compared to placebo. The study also showed a significant reduction in cardiovascular death, with no difference in overall mortality.
New cause of heart arrhythmia found
A new study identifies NUP155 as the root cause of rare and severe atrial fibrillation. The gene controls molecular transport into and out of the cell nucleus, affecting heart health.
Up to 2 drinks per day not linked with higher risk of irregular heart beat for women
A study of 34,715 women found that up to two drinks per day is not associated with an increased risk of atrial fibrillation. However, women who consumed more than two drinks per day had a higher risk of developing the condition.
Data expand clinical utility of deCODE's DNA-based risk tests for heart attack, AF and stroke
DeCODE's DNA-based risk tests have been shown to increase accuracy of MI risk prediction by measuring genetic markers on chromosomes 9p21 and 4q25. These tests provide a new tool for improving screening, prevention, and treatment of cardiovascular conditions.
Presentations at AHA expand on clinical utility of deCODE's DNA-based tests
deCODE's DNA-based tests measure genetic markers linked to increased cardiovascular conditions' risk. These tests provide doctors with a new tool for improving screening, prevention, and treatment.
New lung transplantation research presented at CHEST 2008
Researchers found that patients receiving donated lungs may develop arrhythmias, including atrial fibrillation, within 30 days of transplantation. Herpes zoster, or shingles, is also a common complication after lung transplantation, but antiviral prophylaxis and treatment with the antibody RATG can be protective.
Osteoporosis drugs increase risk for heart problems
Common osteoporosis medications bisphosphonates may cause irregular heartbeats and serious atrial fibrillation in patients. The risk is significant, with up to two times more likelihood of serious AF compared to placebo, highlighting the need for caution when prescribing these medications.
Lessening medication for atrial fibrillation does not reduce side effects
A study found that reducing amiodarone treatment frequency did not decrease side effects but increased atrial fibrillation recurrence rates. Patients in the episodic treatment group had higher all-cause deaths and cardiovascular hospitalizations compared to those receiving continuous treatment.
Novel imaging approach may assist in predicting success of treatment for atrial fibrillation
Researchers at University of Utah Health developed an MRI-based method to detect and measure scarring on the left atrium's wall in patients with atrial fibrillation. The study found that higher percentages of LA wall injury are linked to a lower recurrence rate of arrhythmia.
SourceUniversity of Utah Health·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateOct 7, 2008
Mayo Clinic spearheads research to discover unsuspected gene for atrial fibrillation
Researchers have found a gene mutation linked to one family's hereditary form of atrial fibrillation, leading to better understanding and potential new treatments. The discovery provides insight into pathways that may be applicable to people in the general population with atrial fibrillation.
10 percent of healthy people in study had injury from 'silent strokes'
A study found 10.7% of asymptomatic middle-aged individuals had silent cerebral infarctions, a brain injury caused by blood clots. Hypertension and atrial fibrillation significantly increased the risk of SCI.
The Montreal Heart Institute presents findings on congestive heart failure and atrial fibrillation
A major international clinical trial has found that a simpler approach to treating atrial fibrillation in patients with congestive heart failure can significantly reduce hospitalization rates and eliminate the need for repeated cardioversions. The study, published in the New England Journal of Medicine, enrolled 1,376 patients at 123 h...
Utah physician honored for new techniques that use imaging to treat common heart rhythm disorder
Dr. Marrouche's pioneering work with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has improved the curative rates and safety of radiofrequency ablation procedures for atrial fibrillation. His research has led to significant reduction in complications and arrhythmia-free outcomes for patients.
Osteoporosis drug Fosamax linked to heart problem
Women using Fosamax are nearly twice as likely to develop atrial fibrillation, a chronic irregular heartbeat. The study found that maintaining a healthy body weight may help protect against this condition.
Osteoporosis drug may be associated with irregular heartbeat
A new study found that women taking osteoporosis medication alendronate are at increased risk of developing atrial fibrillation. The researchers estimated that approximately 3% of new atrial fibrillation cases may be attributed to alendronate use.
Mitochondrial dysfunction and redox signaling in atrial tachyarrhythmia
Atrial tachycardia is associated with mitochondrial dysfunction and oxidative stress, leading to NF-kB activation. Blockade of angiotensin II receptors, L-type calcium channels, NADPH oxidase, and inhibition of NF-κB activation can abolish or decrease tachycardia-dependent changes in atrial tissue.
SourceSociety for Experimental Biology and Medicine·JournalExperimental Biology and Medicine·DateApr 23, 2008
Surgeons announce advance in atrial fibrillation surgery
The Cox-Maze procedure has been enhanced to include an additional ablation, known as the box lesion, which improves patient outcomes by reducing atrial flutter and fibrillation. This new technique also leads to shorter hospital stays and lower use of antiarrhythmic drugs.
Focus on atrial fibrillation recognizes growing importance of common arrhythmia
A recent study found that patients taking statins were 61% less likely to develop atrial fibrillation. The American College of Cardiology also releases new performance measures for monitoring AF care, which focus on stroke prevention through medication and regular monitoring.
SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateFeb 18, 2008
Warfarin better than aspirin at stroke prevention in elderly people with atrial fibrillation
Researchers concluded that warfarin reduces stroke risk by 52% compared to aspirin in patients over 75 with atrial fibrillation. The study found no significant increase in bleeding risks associated with warfarin use.
Ottawa aggressive protocol for acute atrial fibrillation is successful
The Ottawa Aggressive Protocol, involving IV procainamide and electrical cardioversion, is effective in treating AAF and AAFL with a high discharge rate of over 90%. This approach stands in contrast to traditional US practice, which often involves hospital admission followed by cardiologist treatment.
Online education program better source of information for patients
A study by the American Heart Association found that patients who used an online education program were more aware of treatment options and asked their doctors about care. The program provided personalized information in lay language, leading to improved patient knowledge and behavior.
Once-a-year drug reduces fractures from osteoporosis
A new study has found that a once-a-year treatment for osteoporosis can be as effective as monthly or weekly regimens at reducing bone fractures. The treatment, zoledronic acid, was shown to reduce the risk of spinal fractures by 70% and hip fractures by 40% over three years.
SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateMay 2, 2007
Use of hydrocortisone reduces incidence of atrial fibrillation after cardiac surgery
A new study published in JAMA found that patients who receive hydrocortisone after cardiac surgery have a significantly lower risk of developing atrial fibrillation. The incidence of AF was reduced by 37% in the hydrocortisone group compared to those receiving placebo.
Irregular heartbeat linked to genetic mutation, Mayo Clinic study shows
A Mayo Clinic study has identified a genetic mutation associated with an inherited predisposition to atrial fibrillation, a type of irregular heartbeat. The discovery may lead to improved identification and treatment of younger patients affected by this condition.
Pulse pressure identified as important risk factor for atrial fibrillation
A study identified pulse pressure as an important predictor of atrial fibrillation development, with increased stiffness associated with higher risk. The research found that a 20 mm Hg increase in pulse pressure was linked to a 34% increased risk of developing AF.