Global public awareness about atrial fibrillation

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Public Health
• Neurology

Background:

• Atrial fibrillation (AF) is a significant cause of ischemic stroke, often diagnosed only after a stroke occurs.
• Public awareness of AF risk factors and symptoms is crucial for early diagnosis and thromboprophylaxis.
• The global extent of public awareness regarding AF remains uncertain.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess and compare global public awareness of atrial fibrillation (AF).
• To evaluate public knowledge of AF risk factors, symptoms, and its link to stroke.
• To compare AF awareness with that of other thrombotic and non-thrombotic disorders.

Main Methods:

• An internet-based, cross-sectional survey was conducted in 10 countries between September and October 2016.
• 6312 participants were recruited via weighted, age-stratified online panels.
• The survey assessed awareness of AF, its risk factors, symptoms, and stroke association, alongside other disorders.

Main Results:

• Overall public awareness of AF was 48%, lower than most other studied disorders except deep vein thrombosis (43%).
• Awareness of AF varied significantly by country (25%-69%).
• Knowledge of AF risk factors (8%-52%) and its link to stroke (36%-46%) was also limited, though palpitations were correctly identified as a symptom by 82% of those aware of AF.

Conclusions:

• Global public awareness of atrial fibrillation (AF) is notably low.
• Low awareness highlights a critical gap in public health knowledge regarding stroke prevention.
• Enhancing public understanding of AF is essential to encourage earlier diagnosis and access to stroke preventive care.