Incidence Of Atrial Fibrillation Research Articles

Early postoperative outcomes of modified del Nido cardioplegia in coronary artery bypass surgery in patients with low ejection fraction

Background: This study aimed to investigate the intraoperative and early postoperative effects of modified del Nido cardioplegia (DNC) compared to classic blood cardioplegia (BC) in patients with impaired left ventricular ejection fraction (EF) who underwent isolated coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG). Methods: A total of 123 patients (108 males, 15 females; mean age: 62.2±8.5 years; range, 42 to 78 years) with an EF of 35% or lower who underwent on-pump CABG were included in the retrospective study between December 2022 and December 2023. The patients were divided into two groups according to the type of cardioplegia used: Group 1 (n=74) was designated as the BC group, and Group 2 (n=49) was designated as the DNC group. The groups were compared in terms of aortic cross-clamp duration, cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) duration, need for defibrillation during weaning from CPB, positive inotrope requirement, intra-aortic balloon pump requirement, postoperative troponin-I levels, postoperative atrial fibrillation occurence, postoperative prolonged ventilation, development of postoperative neurologic complications, need for reintervention due to postoperative bleeding, postoperative transfusion requirement, and EF values at one month after the operation. Results: There was no significant difference between the two groups in the terms of aortic cross-clamp and CPB duration (p=0.955 vs. p=0.816). Additionally, there was no significant difference in the need for intra-aortic balloon pump usage between the two groups (p=0.105). Dopamine and dobutamine usage were significantly lower in Group 2 (p=0.04 and p=0.05, respectively). The intraoperative requirement for defibrillation was significantly lower in Group 2 (p=0.01). In addition, troponin levels at 12 h postoperatively were significantly lower in Group 2 (p=0.03). The incidence of postoperative atrial fibrillation was significantly lower in Group 2 (p=0.02). Moreover, there was no significant difference in EF values at one month after the operation (p=0.08). Conclusion: In patients who underwent CABG with reduced EF, modified DNC provided myocardial protection comparable to classic BC. Additionally, the need for intraoperative defibrillation and postoperative inotropic agents, as well as the incidence of postoperative atrial fibrillation, were lower in patients operated with DNC.

Development of learning-based predictive models for radiation-induced atrial fibrillation in non-small cell lung cancer patients by integrating patient-specific clinical, dosimetry, and diagnostic information

Background and purposeRadiotherapy (RT) in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) can induce cardiac adverse events, including atrial fibrillation (AF), despite advanced RT. This study integrates patient-specific information to develop learning-based models to predict the incidence of AF following NSCLC chemoradiotherapy (CRT) and evaluates these models using institutional and external datasets. Materials and methodsInstitutional and external patient cohorts consisted of 321 and 187 NSCLC datasets who received definitive CRT, including 17 and 6 AF incidences, respectively. The network input had 159 features with clinical, dosimetry, and diagnostic. The class imbalance was mitigated by synthetic minority oversampling technique. To handle various types of input features, machine learning-based model adopted an intervention technique that chose one feature with the largest weight at each dosimetry sub-group in feature selection process, while deep learning-based model employed a hybrid architecture assigning different types of networks to corresponding input paths. Performance was assessed by area under the curve (AUC). The key features were investigated for the machine and deep learning-based models. ResultsThe hybrid deep learning model outperformed the machine learning-based algorithm in internal validation (AUC: 0.817 vs. 0.801) and produced more consistent performance in external validation (AUC: 0.806 vs. 0.776). Importantly, maximum dose to heart and sinoatrial node (SAN) were found to be the key features for both learning-based models in external and internal validations. ConclusionsThe learning-based predictive models showed consistent prediction performance across internal and external cohorts, identifying maximum heart and SAN dose as key features for the incidence of AF.

Incidence and Clinical Predictors of Atrial Fibrillation in Patients with Dual-Chamber Pacemakers: A Retrospective Analysis

Abstract Atrial fibrillation (AF) is a prevalent cardiac arrhythmia, affecting millions worldwide and increasing in frequency with age. Despite progress in treatment and prevention, AF remains a significant contributor to stroke, heart failure, and overall cardiovascular morbidity. One particularly challenging type of AF, paroxysmal atrial fibrillation (PAF), is often asymptomatic, leading to delayed diagnosis and increasing the risk of severe complications like stroke. The advent of cardiac implantable electronic devices (CIEDs) has significantly improved the ability to detect subclinical AF or atrial high-rate episodes (AHRE), even in patients with no symptoms. These devices, particularly pacemakers, offer long-term, continuous monitoring of atrial rhythms, making them an invaluable tool for diagnosing AF early and assessing its burden in real time. This study focused on a cohort of patients from the Oltenia region who received dual-chamber pacemakers with no prior diagnosis of AF. The research aimed to monitor the incidence of AF in these patients over a follow-up period of 12 to 18 months and to identify potential clinical predictors for developing AF. A total of 91 patients were assessed in this study, all of whom received dual-chamber pacemakers by the pacing guidelines for conditions such as atrioventricular block and sick sinus syndrome. None of the patients had a history of AF at the time of implantation. Follow-up results indicated an incidence of AHRE in 13.19% of patients, with significant predictors including advanced age and the presence of hypertension. These findings align with the broader literature, which consistently associates both factors with an increased risk of AF. The study underscores the importance of continuous monitoring in pacemaker patients, particularly for detecting asymptomatic AF, which may necessitate specific therapeutic interventions. Although the study’s sample size was limited, its findings contribute valuable insights into managing AF in pacemaker patients, particularly regarding early detection and potential risk factors. Future research with larger cohorts is necessary to confirm and expand these results.

Atrial fibrillation in transthyretin amyloidotic cardiomyopathy: prevalence and echocardiographic predictors.

Conduction disorders and arrhythmias frequently accompany cardiac amyloidosis (CA), with atrial fibrillation (AF) being the most prevalent manifestation. The prevalence of AF varies across different types of CA, with transthyretin (TTR) type showing the highest prevalence upon diagnosis. A retrospective, observational analysis was conducted to evaluate the prevalence of AF and to identify echocardiographic predictors related to the development of AF in our population of patients with transthyretin cardiac amyloidosis (TTR-CA). A total of 99 patients with TTR-CA were identified, with a median age of 82 (75-85) years, a median ejection fraction of 50% (43-60) and 97 of them wild type. At the time of cardiomyopathy diagnosis, 55% had AF, and during follow-up, 43% developed new AF. Among the latter group, there was a non-significant tendency to have a smaller diastolic diameter, lower left ventricular ejection fraction, increased septal thickness, higher pulmonary pressure, and lower tissue velocities, with statistical significance only found in the right ventricular S wave velocity: 8.5 cm/s (7.7-9) vs. 9.7 cm/s (8.4-10) (P=0.046). The high prevalence and incidence of AF in TTR-CA is demonstrated in our series. Doppler echocardiography might help to identify patients with signs of more advanced cardiomyopathy, such as lower right ventricle tissue velocity, who might be at higher risk of developing AF and gain the benefit of prompt diagnosis and treatment.

A predictive score for atrial fibrillation in poststroke patients.

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is a risk factor for cerebral ischemia. Identifying the presence of AF, especially in paroxysmal cases, may take time and lacks clear support in the literature regarding the optimal investigative approach; in resource-limited settings, identifying a higher-risk group for AF can assist in planning further investigation. To develop a scoring tool to predict the risk of incident AF in the poststroke follow-up. A retrospective longitudinal study with data collected from electronic medical records of patients hospitalized and followed up for cerebral ischemia from 2014 to 2021 at a tertiary stroke center. Demographic, clinical, laboratory, electrocardiogram, and echocardiogram data, as well as neuroimaging data, were collected. Stepwise logistic regression was employed to identify associated variables. A score with integer numbers was created based on beta coefficients. Calibration and validation were performed to evaluate accuracy. We included 872 patients in the final analysis. The score was created with left atrial diameter ≥ 42 mm (2 points), age ≥ 70 years (1 point), presence of septal aneurysm (2 points), and score ≥ 6 points at admission on the National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS; 1 point). The score ranges from 0 to 6. Patients with a score ≥ 2 points had a fivefold increased risk of having AF detected in the follow-up. The area under the curve (AUC) was of 0.77 (0.72-0.85). We were able structure an accurate risk score tool for incident AF, which could be validated in multicenter samples in future studies.

Stair climbing and risk of incident atrial fibrillation: Effect modulated by sex, genetic predisposition, and cardiorespiratory fitness

Background and aimsStair climbing, a straightforward and impactful form of physical activity, has shown potential in reducing risks of cardiovascular disease and mortality. However, its association with the development of atrial fibrillation (AF) remains largely unexplored. Methods and results451,089 participants (mean age 56.5 years) without cardiovascular disease (year 2006–2010) were included from the UK Biobank study. Stair climbing data was collected through touchscreen questionnaire. AF cases were identified using ICD-10 code: I48 and were followed until February 1, 2022. Models adjusted for traditional cardiovascular risk factors. Over a median follow-up of 12.6 years, 23,660 (5.2 %) participants experienced new-onset AF. In multivariable-adjusted models, climbing 10–50, 60–100, 110–150, and ≥160 steps of stairs per day were associated with significant reductions in the risk of AF, compared to not climbing any stairs. The risk reduction appeared more pronounced in women than in men (P for interaction = 0.09). When compared to participants who climbed no stairs, the HRs for those who climbed 110–150 steps of stairs per day were 0.69 (95 % CI: 0.58–0.82) among those with low cardiorespiratory fitness, 0.71 (95 % CI: 0.57–0.88) among those with intermediate cardiorespiratory fitness, and 0.83 (95 % CI: 0.64–1.07) among those with high cardiorespiratory fitness. ConclusionsClimbing stairs was associated with a reduction in AF risks. Significant interaction between cardiorespiratory fitness and stair climbing associated with incident AF was observed. Findings suggest that promoting regular stair climbing could be a potential target for preventing AF onset.

Analysis of Thyroid Disorders in the Occurrence of Paroxysmal Atrial Fibrillation

Thyroid disorders can directly affect the cardiovascular system, especially atrial fibrillation arrhythmia. Atrial fibrillation can be triggered by hormonal changes in the human body system. This can be dangerous and can increase the risk of stroke in sufferers. For this reason, researchers conducted this study to be able to analyze the risk of atrial fibrillation due to thyroid disorders. This study used a retrospective analytical design, with a chi square test to determine the risk of increased atrial fibrillation due to thyroid disorders. This study was conducted at Budhi Asih Hospital with Holter monitoring patient samples. The results of this study showed that in patients with thyroid disorders, the results of Holter monitoring showed paroxysmal atrial fibrillation as much as 9.9%, with a p-value: 0.000; OR: 39.346. The conclusion is that there are significant results between thyroid disorders and the incidence of paroxysmal atrial fibrillation

Stroke Prevention With Prophylactic Left Atrial Appendage Occlusion in Cardiac Surgery Patients Without Atrial Fibrillation: A Meta-Analysis of Randomized and Propensity-Score Studies.

The role of left atrial appendage occlusion (LAAO) in patients without previous atrial fibrillation (AF) is not established. This meta-analysis was conducted on patients with normal sinus rhythm who underwent cardiac surgery, with and without concomitant LAAO, to evaluate its effect on the incidence of cerebrovascular accidents (CVAs). A systematic review was conducted from inception until December 2023 for randomized and propensity-score studies comparing CVA in patients without AF undergoing cardiac surgery with or without LAAO. Six studies met our inclusion criteria with a total of 4130 patients: 2146 in the LAAO group and 1984 in the no-LAAO group. The risk ratio of postoperative AF was 1.05 (95% CI, 0.86-1.28); P=0.628. The CVA rates at 5 years were 6.8±1.0% in the no-LAAO group and 4.3±0.8% in the LAAO group (log-rank P=0.021). The Cox regression analysis for CVA in patients undergoing LAAO reported a hazard ratio of 0.65 (95% CI, 0.45-0.94); P=0.022. Landmark analysis at 4 years highlighted a significant difference in overall survival between no-LAAO and LAAO groups, 86±12.2% versus 89.6±11.0%; P=0.041. In this meta-analysis of patients without previous AF undergoing cardiac surgery, LAAO was associated with a decreased risk of CVA, no difference in the incidence of postoperative atrial fibrillation, and a significant overall survival benefit at a 4-year landmark analysis. Although these findings support LAAO, the randomized LeAAPS trial (Left Atrial Appendage Exclusion for Prophylactic Stroke Reduction Trial), LAA-CLOSURE trial (A Randomized Prospective Multicenter Trial for Stroke Prevention by Prophylactic Surgical Closure of the Left Atrial Appendage in Patients Undergoing Bioprosthetic Aortic Valve Surgery), and LAACS-2 trial (Left Atrial Appendage Closure by Surgery-2) will help define the effectiveness of LAAO in patients undergoing cardiac surgery who have risk factors for AF and CVA. URL: https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/; Unique identifier: CRD42024496366.

Ten tips to manage oral anticoagulation in hemodialysis patients with atrial fibrillation

ABSTRACT Patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) have a high incidence and prevalence of atrial fibrillation (AF). While general treatment strategies for AF may largely be transferred to patients with mild to moderate CKD, patients with advanced CKD—particularly hemodialysis (HD) patients—with AF pose substantial therapeutical challenges to cardiologists and nephrologists. The arguably greatest dilemma is the very limited evidence on appropriate strategies for prevention of stroke and systemic embolism in HD patients with AF, since the risk for both thromboembolic events without oral anticoagulation and severe bleeding events with oral anticoagulation are substantially increased in advanced CKD, compared with the general population. Thus, the benefit to risk ratio of either vitamin K antagonists or direct oral anticoagulants is less evident in HD than in non-CKD patients with AF. As a multidisciplinary panel of clinicians, we here propose 10 tips that may help our colleagues to navigate between the risk of undertreatment—exposing CKD patients with AF to a high stroke risk—and overtreatment—exposing the very same patients to a prohibitively high bleeding risk. These tips include ideas on alternative risk stratification strategies and novel treatment approaches that are currently in clinical studies—such as factor XI inhibitors or left atrial appendage closure—and may become game-changers for HD patients with AF.

Aging-associated atrial fibrillation: A comprehensive review focusing on the potential mechanisms.

Atrial fibrillation (AF) has been receiving a lot of attention from scientists and clinicians because it is an extremely common clinical condition. Due to its special hemodynamic changes, AF has a high rate of disability and mortality. So far, although AF has some therapeutic means, it is still an incurable disease because of its complex risk factors and pathophysiologic mechanisms, which is a difficult problem for global public health. Age is an important independent risk factor for AF, and the incidence of AF increases with age. To date, there is no comprehensive review on aging-associated AF. In this review, we systematically discuss the pathophysiologic evidence for aging-associated AF, and in particular explore the pathophysiologic mechanisms of mitochondrial dysfunction, telomere attrition, cellular senescence, disabled macroautophagy, and gut dysbiosis involved in recent studies with aging-associated AF. We hope that by exploring the various dimensions of aging-associated AF, we can better understand the specific relationship between age and AF, which may be crucial for innovative treatments of aging-associated AF.

Exploration of the shared gene signatures and comorbidity mechanisms of primary aldosteronism and atrial fibrillation.

Primary aldosteronism (PA) is a prevalent cause of endocrine hypertension characterized by an excess of aldosterone that can induce proinflammatory, prooxidant, and profibrotic effects on the heart. Emerging evidence indicates a heightened incidence of atrial fibrillation (AF) in patients with PA, suggesting a significant association between the two conditions. However, the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. The purpose of this study was to investigate the molecular networks associated with the development of both PA and AF. Datasets were obtained from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database. Hub genes were identified by enrichment and protein‒protein interaction analysis. These hub genes were subsequently validated via two independent external datasets: GSE60042 and GSE41177. Following the identification of shared genes, quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) was employed to verify the reliability of the dataset and to further confirm the presence of shared genes in clinical samples. The results of the common gene analysis revealed that immune and inflammatory responses may be shared features in the pathophysiology of PA and AF. One hub gene, specifically tumor necrosis factor superfamily member 10 (TNFSF10), was identified through various analyses and subsequently validated via qPCR. Compared with that in healthy controls, the expression level of TNFSF10 was lower in PA patients with AF. Our findings indicate that TNFSF10 may play a role in the pathophysiology of AF complications associated with PA conditions, suggesting that it could serve as a potential target for the diagnosis or treatment of PA patients complicated with AF.

Risk of Stroke and Incident Atrial Fibrillation in Patients in Sinus Rhythm With Nonischemic Dilated Cardiomyopathy

Background: Non-ischemic dilated cardiomyopathy (NIDCM) is associated with an increased risk of atrial fibrillation (AF) and stroke, especially in patients with high CHA2DS2-VASc. We aimed to identify variables associated with incident AF or stroke using left atrial (LA) deformation analysis and its prognostic value added to CHA2DS2-VASc score. Patients with NIDCM and LVEF <50% in sinus rhythm were included between January 2015 and December 2019. LA volume index (LAVI) and atrial strain were used in combination with the CHA2DS2-VAS score to predict ischemic stroke or incident AF. Proportional hazards Cox regression was used to provide hazard ratios (HR). There were 338 patients included. After a median follow-up of 3.6 years, the endpoint occurred in 41 (12.1%) patients. LAVI outperformed other echocardiographic parameters, with significant improvement in risk reclassification compared to CHA2DS2-VASc alone (net reclassification index 0.6, increase in Harrell's C from 0.63 to 0.73, P=0.003) and remained significant after multivariate adjustment. LAVI was associated with both components of the endpoint separately. The best cutoff for LAVI was 44 ml/m2. LAVI ≥44ml/m2 increased the risk of the endpoint among those with CHA2DS2-VASc ≥3 (HR=6.0, 95%CI 2.6-13.5), but not in those with CHA2DS2-VASc <3 (HR=1.2, 95%CI 0.3-4.5). Competing risk analysis did not alter the results. In conclusion, LAVI might be used to assess the risk of incident AF or stroke in NIDCM. Patients with LAVI ≥44 ml/m2 and CHA2DS2-VASc ≥3 could be at high risk of AF and stroke and may benefit from more intensive surveillance.

Heart Failure with Preserved Ejection Fraction Correlates with Fibrotic Atrial Myopathy in Patients Undergoing Atrial Fibrillation Ablation.

Background: The incidence of atrial fibrillation (AF) in patients with heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) is high. Impaired left atrial (LA) function is a major determinant in HFpEF. However, the extent of electrical LA tissue degeneration in HFpEF is unknown. Therefore, we sought to investigate the amount of arrhythmogenic and fibrotic LA tissue degeneration in HFpEF patients presenting for AF ablation. Methods: We prospectively screened consecutive patients presenting for first time AF ablation. The HFA-PEFF score was used to identify HFpEF patients. Bipolar high-density voltage mapping was created in sinus rhythm prior to ablation to evaluate the general LA bipolar voltage and quantify areas of low voltage. LVAs were defined as areas with bipolar voltage < 0.5 mV. Results: In total, 187 patients were prospectively enrolled (age 65 ± 11 years, 45% female, 46% persistent AF, 25% HFpEF) in this study. HFpEF patients were older and had a higher CHA2DS2-VASc score (70 ± 9 vs. 63 ± 11 years and 3.2 ± 1.5 vs. 2.3 ± 1.5, each p < 0.001, respectively). Overall, low-voltage areas (LVAs) were present in 97 patients (52%), whereas 76% of the HFpEF population had LVA, as compared to 44% of patients without HFpEF (p < 0.001). HFpEF was associated with generally decreased LA bipolar voltage (1.09 ± 0.64 vs. 1.83 ± 0.91 mV; p < 0.001) and predictive of the presence of low-voltage areas (76% vs. 44% p < 0.001). The HFA-PEFF score inversely correlated with LA bipolar voltage (=-0.454; p < 0.001). Conclusions: HFpEF closely relates to generally decreased LA bipolar voltage and to the existence of fibrotic and arrhythmogenic LA tissue degeneration.

Efficacy of sacubitril-valsartan vs. angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors or angiotensin receptor blockers in preventing atrial fibrillation recurrence after catheter ablation: asystematic review and meta-analysis.

Patients who have undergone catheter ablation for atrial fibrillation (AF) may experience recurrence of this condition. The efficacy of sacubitril-valsartan (S/V) in preventing AF recurrence compared with angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEIs) or angiotensinII receptor blockers (ARBs) is not established. This meta-analysis aimed to establish the best therapeutic choice for preventing AF recurrence after catheter ablation. Asystematic search of the PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane databases was conducted for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and observational studies comparing the use of S/V with ACEI/ARB in patients who underwent catheter ablation. Results are presented as mean difference (MD) with 95% confidence interval (CI). Heterogeneity was assessed with the I2 statistic, and outcomes are expressed as relative risk (RR). Rsoftware version4.2.3 was used for the analysis. Three RCTs and one cohort study, comprising 642 patients with 319 patients in the S/V group and 323 in the control group, were included. Follow-up ranged from 6to 36months, with mean ages ranging from 58.9 to 65.8years. Asignificant reduction in persistent AF occurrence was demonstrated favoring the S/V group (RR: 0.54; 95% CI: [0.41, 0.70]; p = 0.000004; I2: 80%) over the ACEI/ARB group. There was no significant difference in left ventricular ejection fraction with S/V use (MD: 1.23; 95% CI: [-0.12, 2.60]; p = 0.076; I2: 0%) compared with ACEI/ARB. The analysis also showed asignificant reduction in left atrial volume index (MD: -5.33; 95% CI: [-8.76, -1.90]; p = 0.002; I2: 57%) in the S/V group compared with the ACEI/ARB group. This meta-analysis demonstrated the efficacy of S/V in reducing the incidence of AF in patients undergoing catheter ablation compared with the use of ACEI/ARB. However, more RCTs are needed for acomprehensive evaluation of its efficacy in reducing AF recurrence after catheter ablation in clinical practice.

Association of cannabis use disorder with atrial fibrillation in young men without concomitant tobacco use: Insights from nationwide propensity matched analysis.

Recent data are inconclusive regarding the risk of arrhythmias among young cannabis users. Furthermore, many young adults use both cannabis and tobacco, which could add a residual confounding effect on outcomes. So, we studied young men who have cannabis use disorder (CUD) excluding tobacco use disorder (TUD) to understand their independent association with atrial fibrillation (AF) and related outcomes. To study the association of CUD with AF and related outcomes. We used weighted discharge records from National Inpatient Sample (2019) to assess the baseline characteristics and mortality rates for AF-related hospitalizations in young (18-44 years) men in 1:1 propensity-matched CUD + vs CUD- cohorts without TUD. Propensity matched CUD + and CUD- cohorts consisted of 108495 young men in each arm. Our analysis showed an increased incidence of AF in black population with CUD. In addition, the CUD + cohort had lower rates of hyperlipidemia (6.4% vs 6.9%), hypertension (5.3% vs 6.3%), obesity (9.1% vs 10.9%), alcohol abuse (15.5% vs 16.9%), but had higher rates of anxiety (24.3% vs 18.4%) and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) (9.8% vs 9.4%) compared to CUD-cohort. After adjustment with covariates including other substance abuse, a non-significant association was found between CUD + cohort and AF related hospitalizations (odd ratio: 1.27, 95% confidence interval: 0.91-1.78, P = 0.15). Among hospitalized young men, the CUD + cohort had a higher prevalence of anxiety and COPD, and slightly higher proportion of black patients. Although there were higher odds of AF hospitalizations in CUD + cohort without TUD, the association was statistically non-significant. The subgroup analysis showed higher rates of AF in black patients. Large-scale prospective studies are required to evaluate long-term effects of CUD on AF risk and prognosis without TUD and concomitant substance abuse.

Association of Adding Salt to Foods and Potassium Intake with Incident Atrial Fibrillation in the UK Biobank Study.

High sodium and low potassium consumption are related to hypertension and cardiovascular disease. We aimed to determine the relationship between the frequency of salt addition and potassium consumption with the risk of new-onset atrial fibrillation (AF). Our study used the UK Biobank cohort, which included over 500,000 individuals enrolled from the United Kingdom between 2006 and 2010. This study involved 416,868 participants who filled out the dietary recall regarding the frequency of salt addition. During follow-up, 19,164 (4.6%) developed AF. The incidence of new-onset AF was increased based on the frequency of salt addition (never/rarely 3.83; always 4.72 per 1000 person-years). Compared with the group that never/rarely added salt, those adding salt always were at significantly higher risk of incident AF after adjusting for multiple variables (hazard ratio (HR) 1.15; 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.06-1.24), and additional adjustment of dietary and total energy consumption (HR 1.37; 95% CI 1.08-1.73). In the subgroup analysis, the risk of AF incident according to the frequency of salt addition significantly increased in low urine potassium levels compared to high (p for interaction = 0.046). In the subgroup analysis for AF patients, higher salt addition frequency was related to increased all-cause mortality. Our study demonstrated that adding salt to foods more frequently increases the risk of incident AF, even after adjusting for dietary and total energy consumption. In the high urine potassium group, the impact of high sodium consumption on incident AF was attenuated.

Association between long-term exposure to low ambient PM2.5 and cardiovascular hospital admissions: A UK Biobank study

IntroductionA causal link between air pollution exposure and cardiovascular events has been suggested. However fewer studies have investigated the shape of the associations at low levels of air pollution and identified the most important temporal window of exposure. Here we assessed long-term associations between particulate matter < 2.5 µm (PM2.5) at low concentrations and multiple cardiovascular endpoints using the UK Biobank cohort. MethodsUsing data on adults (aged > 40) from the UK Biobank cohort, we investigated the associations between 1-year, 3-year and 5-year time-varying averages of PM2.5 and incidence of major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE), myocardial infarction (MI), heart failure, atrial fibrillation and flutter and cardiac arrest. We also investigated outcome subtypes for MI and stroke. Events were defined as hospital inpatient admissions. We fitted Cox proportional hazard regression models applying extensive control for confounding at both individual and area level. Finally, we assessed the shape of the exposure–response functions to assess effects at low levels of exposure. ResultsWe analysed data from 377,736 study participants after exclusion of prevalent subjects. The average follow-up (2006–2021) was 12.9 years. We detected 19,353 cases of MACE, 6,562 of acute MI, 6,278 of heart failure, 1,258 for atrial fibrillation and flutter, and 16,327 for cardiac arrest. Using a 5-year exposure window, we detected positive associations (for 5 μg/m3 increase in PM2.5) for 5-point MACE of [1.12 (95 %CI: 1.00–1.26)], heart failure [1.22 (1.00–1.50)] and cardiac arrest [1.16 (1.03–1.31)]. We did not find any association with acute MI, while non-ST-elevation MI was associated with the 1-year exposure window [1.52 (1.12–2.07)]. The assessment of the shape of the exposure–response relationships suggested that risk is approximately linear for most of the outcomes. ConclusionsWe found positive associations between long-term exposure to PM2.5 and multiple cardiovascular outcomes for different exposure windows. The cardiovascular risk tends to rise even at exposure concentrations below 12–15 μg/m3, indicating high risk below UK national and international thresholds.

Temporal trends in mortality and causes of death in patients with incident atrial fibrillation: a nationwide register study from 2010 to 2018

ObjectivesAtrial fibrillation (AF) is associated with increased mortality. Previous studies have reported conflicting results in temporal trends of mortality after AF diagnosis. We aim to address this disparity by investigating...

Higher incidence of new atrial fibrillation in hospitalised COVID-19 patients compared to lower respiratory tract infection, however, less patients anticoagulated at discharge

Higher incidence of new atrial fibrillation in hospitalised COVID-19 patients compared to lower respiratory tract infection, however, less patients anticoagulated at discharge

Left atrial strain measured by three-dimensional echocardiography predicts atrial fibrillation in the general population

BackgroundLeft atrial (LA) strain by three-dimensional echocardiography (3DE), has been proposed as a more accurate measure of LA function, providing incremental prognostic benefits over traditional two-dimensional approaches. ObjectivesOur aim was to evaluate the prognostic value of LA strain by 3DE in predicting incident atrial fibrillation (AF) in the general population. MethodsThe study included 4466 participants from a prospective longitudinal cohort study in the general population, among these 3DE LA strain was analysed in 1935 participants. The endpoint was incident AF. Adjustments were made for the CHARGE-AF clinical risk score. ResultsMean age was 54 ± 17 years, 43 % were male. During a median follow-up time of 4.8 years (interquartile range 4.3–5.5 years) 59 participants (3.0 %) developed AF. In univariable analysis, all three parameters were associated with incident AF (p value for all <0.01). After multivariable adjustments, only LA reservoir strain (LASr) and LA contractile strain (LASct) were associated with incident AF (LASr: HR 1.12 (1.07–1.17), p < 0.001, per 1 % decrease; LASct: HR 1.16 (1.09–1.24), p < 0.001, per 1 % decrease), whereas LA conduit strain (LAScd) was not (HR 1.04 (0.98–1.10), p = 0.17, per 1 % decrease). Both LASr (continuous net reclassification index 0.37 ± 0.14; p = 0.003) and LASct (continuous net reclassification index 0.41 ± 0.14; p = 0.002) provided incremental prognostic information beyond the CHARGE-AF risk score. ConclusionLASr and LASct measured by 3DE are independently associated with incident AF and provided incremental prognostic information beyond existing risk scores.