Effects of Atrial Fibrıllation on Cognitive Functions in Patients Between 65-75 Years of Age

Abstract

Objective: Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common arrhythmia in the elderly population and also the most common cause of ischemic stroke. Ischemic stroke is directly related to cognitive decline. The relationship between atrial fibrillation and cognitive decline has long been associated with stroke. This study aimed to reveal whether the mere presence of atrial fibrillation, independent of stroke, has negative effects on cognitive functions. Material and Method: Male and female patients between the ages of 65 and 75 with no chronic diseases other than known hypertension were included in the study. They were divided into two groups according to electrocardiography findings: the group with newly diagnosed atrial fibrillation and the group with normal sinus rhythm (NSR). To evaluate cognitive functions, the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) was applied to both groups, and then the groups were compared in terms of scores. Results: No statistically significant difference was observed between the groups in terms of age, patient characteristics, educational status, or laboratory findings. MoCA scores were significantly lower in the AF group than in the NSR group (p=0.001). Multivariable linear regression analysis demonstrated lower age and higher education status were independently associated with high MoCA scores (β: 3.392, 95% CI: 2.375 - 4.410, p