Hidden Beats: Detection of Subclinical Atrial Fibrillation Using Questionnaires in Young Adults and Its...

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Public Health
• Epidemiology

Background:

• Subclinical atrial fibrillation (AF) is increasingly recognized in young adults.
• Understanding its impact on cardiovascular risk and quality of life (QoL) is crucial for early intervention.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify subclinical AF in young individuals (aged 18-40).
• To examine the association between subclinical AF, cardiovascular risk profile, and QoL in this cohort.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional survey of 403 young adults.
• Utilized the INTERHEART Modifiable Risk Score (IHMRS), AF Effect on QoL (AFEQT), and modified EHRA (mEHRA) questionnaires.
• Statistical analyses included correlation, Mann-Whitney U, Kruskal-Wallis, and multiple linear regression.

Main Results:

• Higher symptom severity correlated with increased cardiovascular risk and decreased QoL.
• Lower QoL was associated with higher IHMRS.
• Women reported greater symptoms and lower QoL.
• Predictors of better cardiovascular health included age, male gender, higher EHRA scores, physical activity, and family history of CVD.

Conclusions:

• Subclinical AF symptoms in young adults are significantly associated with elevated cardiovascular risks and diminished QoL.
• Questionnaire-based screening can facilitate early detection of high-risk individuals, even in resource-limited settings.