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Aging and atrial fibrillation: A vicious circle
Pan Gao1, Xinyi Gao1, Bingxin Xie1
1Tianjin Key Laboratory of Ionic-Molecular Function of Cardiovascular Disease, Department of Cardiology, Tianjin Institute of Cardiology, Second Hospital of Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China.
International Journal of Cardiology
|October 17, 2023
Summary
Atrial fibrillation (AF), a common heart rhythm disorder, becomes more prevalent with age. This review explores recent research on the links between aging and AF, including potential biological mechanisms.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Gerontology
- Internal Medicine
Background:
- Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most frequent sustained cardiac arrhythmia encountered in clinical settings.
- The incidence and prevalence of AF significantly escalate with increasing age, posing a major public health challenge.
- Understanding the aging-AF nexus is crucial for developing targeted prevention and treatment strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review recent advancements in the scientific understanding of the relationship between aging and atrial fibrillation.
- To explore and elucidate the potential underlying biological and physiological mechanisms contributing to AF in older populations.
- To synthesize current knowledge on age-related factors influencing AF pathogenesis.
Main Methods:
- Systematic review of recent peer-reviewed literature.
- Analysis of epidemiological data on AF prevalence across different age groups.
- Examination of molecular, cellular, and systemic mechanisms implicated in age-related AF.
Main Results:
- Aging is a primary risk factor for AF, with prevalence rising sharply in individuals over 65.
- Key mechanisms include cardiac structural and electrical remodeling, inflammation, oxidative stress, and genetic predispositions.
- Comorbidities common in older adults, such as hypertension and heart failure, exacerbate AF risk.
Conclusions:
- The aging process itself contributes significantly to the development of atrial fibrillation through multiple interconnected pathways.
- Further research into age-specific mechanisms is essential for personalized therapeutic approaches.
- Effective management of age-related cardiovascular risk factors may help mitigate AF incidence.
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