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Published on: February 26, 2013
The height as an independent risk factor of atrial fibrillation: A review
Hamza Sohail1, Syeda Maria Hassan1, Uzair Yaqoob2
1Jinnah Sindh Medical University, Karachi, Pakistan.
Insights
Tall stature is linked to an increased risk of atrial fibrillation (AF), an abnormal heart rhythm. Early monitoring and preventive measures are recommended for taller individuals to manage AF progression.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Genetics
- Human Physiology
Background:
- Atrial fibrillation (AF) is a common heart rhythm disorder.
- Height is associated with numerous diseases, including AF.
- AF development is influenced by structural, neural, electrical, and hemodynamic factors.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the association between height and the risk of developing atrial fibrillation.
- To elucidate the underlying mechanisms linking height and AF.
- To identify potential preventive strategies for AF in taller individuals.
Main Methods:
- Review of recent studies and genome-wide association studies (GWAS).
- Analysis of indirect mechanisms involving cardiac size and autonomic function.
- Examination of genetic pathways related to growth and AF.
Main Results:
- Tall stature is independently associated with a higher risk of AF.
- Height influences AF by increasing atrial and ventricular size, altering conduction, and causing autonomic dysregulation.
- Shared genes may link growth pathways and AF development.
Conclusions:
- Height is a significant, independent risk factor for AF.
- Understanding the mechanisms can guide AF prevention in tall individuals.
- Proactive monitoring and management are crucial for individuals with increased height to mitigate AF risk.
Abstract:
Atrial fibrillation (AF) is characterized by abnormal heart rhythm. Among other well-known associations, recent studies suggest an association of AF with height. Height is related to 50 diseases spanning different body systems, AF is one of them. Since AF, a heterogeneous disease process, is influenced by structural, neural, electrical, and hemodynamic factors, height alters this process through its contribution to increasing atrial and ventricular size, leading to altered conduction patterns, autonomic dysregulation, and development of AF. Multiple underlying mechanisms associate height with AF. Apart from these indirect mechanisms, genome-wide association studies suggest the involvement of the same genes in AF and growth pathways. Tall stature is independently associated with a higher risk of AF development in healthy individuals. Since adult height is achieved much earlier than the onset of AF, protective measures can be taken in individuals with increased height to monitor, manage, and prevent the progression of AF.
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