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The WATCHMAN Left Atrial Appendage Closure Device for Atrial Fibrillation
Published on: February 28, 2012
Lifestyle management to prevent and treat atrial fibrillation
Celine Gallagher1, Jeroen M L Hendriks1, Rajiv Mahajan1
1a Centre for Heart Rhythm Disorders, South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute , University of Adelaide and Royal Adelaide Hospital , Adelaide , Australia.
Insights
Managing atrial fibrillation (AF) risk factors is crucial. Aggressive lifestyle changes and integrated care can significantly reduce the burden of this common cardiac arrhythmia.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Electrophysiology
- Preventive Medicine
Background:
- Atrial fibrillation (AF) is a prevalent cardiac arrhythmia with a significant lifetime risk.
- Traditional AF management includes rate/rhythm control and anticoagulation.
- Cardiovascular risk factor management is increasingly recognized as a key component of AF care.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review evidence linking modifiable risk factors to AF.
- To identify optimal treatment targets for improved AF outcomes.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of current evidence.
- Analysis of associations between risk factors and AF.
- Identification of treatment targets.
Main Results:
- Evidence supports the link between modifiable risk factors and AF.
- Integrated care and lifestyle management show promise.
Conclusions:
- An integrated approach to AF care is essential.
- Aggressive lifestyle management can reduce the burden of atrial fibrillation.
Introduction:
Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common sustained cardiac arrhythmia with a one in four lifetime risk in adults over the age of forty. Traditionally, AF management has focused on the three pillars of rate control, rhythm control and appropriate anticoagulation to reduce stroke risk. More recently, the importance of cardiovascular risk factor management in AF has emerged as a fourth and essential pillar with improved patient outcomes.
Areas Covered:
Here, we aim to summarize the current available evidence for the association between various modifiable risk factors and AF, and to identify optimal treatment targets to improve outcomes. Expert Commentary: Care for AF patients utilizing an integrated approach and aggressive lifestyle management may reduce the enormous burden of this arrhythmia.
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