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Updated: Sep 30, 2025

Catheter Ablation in Combination With Left Atrial Appendage Closure for Atrial Fibrillation
Published on: February 26, 2013
Glycemic control and atrial fibrillation: an intricate relationship, yet under investigation
Andreas S Papazoglou1,2, Anastasios Kartas1, Dimitrios V Moysidis1
1First Department of Cardiology, AHEPA University Hospital, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, St. Kiriakidi 1, 54636, Thessaloniki, Greece.
Insights
Diabetes mellitus (DM) increases atrial fibrillation (AF) risk and worsens its outcomes. Glycated hemoglobin monitoring may predict AF and related events, guiding better management of this common comorbidity.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Endocrinology
- Public Health
Background:
- Atrial fibrillation (AF) and diabetes mellitus (DM) are prevalent, interconnected cardiovascular diseases.
- DM is a known risk factor for AF development and exacerbates AF-related complications like stroke and mortality.
- The precise pathogenic links between DM and AF require further elucidation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current literature on the association between DM and AF.
- To evaluate the predictive value of glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) for AF and adverse cardiovascular events.
- To assess anti-diabetic treatments in patients with AF and guide clinical decision-making.
Main Methods:
- Comprehensive literature search on DM and AF comorbidity.
- Analysis of studies investigating HbA1c in relation to AF incidence and outcomes.
- Review of current anti-hyperglycemic therapies and their implications for AF management.
Main Results:
- DM significantly increases the risk of developing AF and negatively impacts its clinical course.
- Glycated hemoglobin levels show potential for predicting AF occurrence and related adverse events.
- Evidence on optimal anti-hyperglycemic strategies for AF patients is evolving.
Conclusions:
- DM is a critical factor in AF pathogenesis and prognosis.
- HbA1c measurement is a valuable tool for risk stratification in patients with DM and AF.
- Integrated management strategies are needed to address the complexities of comorbid DM and AF.
Abstract:
Atrial fibrillation (AF) and diabetes mellitus (DM) constitute two major closely inter-related chronic cardiovascular disorders whose concurrent prevalence rates are steadily increasing. Although, the pathogenic mechanisms behind the AF and DM comorbidity are still vague, it is now clear that DM precipitates AF occurrence. DM also affects the clinical course of established AF; it is associated with significant increase in the incidence of stroke, AF recurrence, and cardiovascular mortality. The impact of DM on AF management and prognosis has been adequately investigated. However, evidence on the relative impact of glycemic control using glycated hemoglobin levels is scarce. This review assesses up-to-date literature on the association between DM and AF. It also highlights the usefulness of glycated hemoglobin measurement for the prediction of AF and AF-related adverse events. Additionally, this review evaluates current anti-hyperglycemic treatment in the context of AF, and discusses AF-related decision-making in comorbid DM. Finally, it quotes significant remaining questions and sets some future strategies with the potential to effectively deal with this prevalent comorbidity.
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