Unveiling Atrial Fibrillation: The Risk Factors, Prediction, and Primary Prevention

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is a highly prevalent, progressive cardiac arrhythmia that significantly impacts the patient's health-related quality of life. AF is linked to a 5-fold and 2-fold higher risk of stroke and cognitive dysfunction, respectively. With advancements in cardiac electrophysiology, many risk factors have been identified, which increase the risk for the development of AF. These risk factors encompassing age, hypertension, smoking, diabetes mellitus, male gender, obesity, alcohol intake, obstructive sleep apnea and so on, can be categorized into 3 major groups: modifiable, non-modifiable, and cardiac. Multiple AF prediction models have been successfully validated to identify people at high risk of AF development using these risk factors. These prediction models, such as CHARGE-AF (Cohorts for Heart and Aging Research in Genomic Epidemiology) and HARMS2-AF score can be used in clinical practice because of their easy applicability. It is crucial to address modifiable risk factors in individuals with a high risk of developing AF. Furthermore, the implementation of primary AF prevention in individuals at high risk can contribute to improved long-term outcomes. This review aims to provide the most recent, concise explanation of the risk factors linked to AF, the prediction of AF, and strategies for the primary prevention of AF.