ATRIAL FIBRILLATION: A REVIEW OF CONTEMPORARY EPIDEMIOLOGY AND ROLE OF INFLAMMATION IN THE PATHOPHYSIOLOGY

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Immunology
• Epidemiology

Background:

• Atrial Fibrillation (AF) is a growing global health concern, contributing significantly to cardiovascular morbidity and mortality.
• Its pathophysiology involves complex cardiac remodeling, but emerging evidence highlights the role of inflammatory markers.
• Understanding these markers is crucial for addressing the rising incidence of AF.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the current epidemiology of Atrial Fibrillation.
• To investigate the role of specific inflammatory markers in the pathogenesis of AF.

Main Methods:

• A narrative literature review was conducted.
• Contemporary epidemiological data on AF was analyzed.
• The focus was on the association between inflammatory markers (IL-2, IL-6, CRP, TNF) and AF.

Main Results:

• AF prevalence and incidence have significantly increased globally.
• Elevated C-reactive protein (CRP) predicts AF risk.
• Tumor necrosis factor (TNF) and Interleukin-6 (IL-6) are linked to AF pathogenesis, severity, and atrial remodeling.

Conclusions:

• Inflammatory markers are significantly associated with the increased incidence and prevalence of Atrial Fibrillation.
• Targeting inflammation may offer novel strategies for AF prevention and treatment.
• Further research into inflammatory pathways could improve patient outcomes and reduce AF complications.