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Estimating Bilateral Atrial Function by Cardiovascular Magnetic Resonance Feature Tracking in Patients with Paroxysmal Atrial Fibrillation
Published on: July 20, 2022
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Exercise and Athletic Activity in Atrial Fibrillation.
Alec Kherlopian1, Shayna Weinshel2, Christopher Madias3
1Division of Cardiology, Tufts Medical Center, 800 Washington Street, Boston, MA 02111, USA.
Cardiac Electrophysiology Clinics
|January 31, 2021
Summary
High-intensity endurance training increases atrial fibrillation (AF) risk in male athletes, but not females. While not fatal in athletes, AF causes significant health issues, necessitating further research into its causes and management.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Science
- Sports Medicine
- Exercise Physiology
Background:
- Moderate-intensity exercise benefits cardiovascular health.
- Long-term, high-intensity endurance training is linked to increased atrial fibrillation (AF) risk in male athletes.
- This AF risk is not observed in female athletes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the current understanding of AF in athletes.
- To identify knowledge gaps regarding AF's natural history, pathophysiology, and management in athletes.
- To highlight sex-based differences in AF risk associated with endurance training.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of clinical evidence.
- Analysis of epidemiological data on athletes and AF.
- Synthesis of current research on exercise-induced cardiovascular changes.
Main Results:
- High-intensity endurance training elevates AF risk specifically in male and veteran athletes.
- Athletes with AF do not exhibit the increased mortality seen in the general population.
- Significant morbidities in athletes include reduced exercise capacity, athletic performance, and quality of life.
Conclusions:
- Atrial fibrillation poses unique challenges for athletes, distinct from the general population.
- Further research is crucial to elucidate the mechanisms and optimal management of AF in athletic individuals.
- Understanding sex differences in AF risk is important for tailored training and health strategies.
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