- Atrial fibrillation (AFib) is an abnormal heart rhythm that can increase the risk of stroke and heart failure.
- While the risk for AFib increases with age, researchers are interested in understanding how common the condition is among younger individuals and what this means for health outcomes.
- A study involving over 67,000 participants with AFib found that nearly 25% of participants were under age 65.
- This subgroup had many cardiovascular risk factors and was at an increased risk for hospitalization from heart failure, stroke, and heart attack compared to controls.
While age can play a role in cardiovascular health, evidence supports the importance of monitoring heart health throughout the lifespan.
A recent
The researchers found that this group had several comorbidities and long-term mortality associated with AFib. The results of the study point to the need to manage risk factors and AFib among younger individuals.
“AFib or atrial fibrillation is the most common heart rhythm disorder that we manage. It happens when your heart’s upper chamber or atria quiver or beat irregularly or excessively, sometimes in excess of 300-400 beats per minute. The disorganized beating of the heart can put patients at risk for stroke and heart failure.”
Researchers of the current study note that AFib is more likely to occur in adults ages 70-80 and older. However, they also note there…
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