Lifestyle and Risk Factor Modification for Reduction of Atrial Fibrillation: A Scientific Statement From the American Heart Association

Mina K. Chung, Lee L. Eckhardt, Lin Y. Chen, Haitham M. Ahmed, Rakesh Gopinathannair, José A. Joglar, Peter A. Noseworthy, Quinn R. Pack, Prashanthan Sanders, Kevin M. Trulock

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

284 Scopus citations

Abstract

Atrial fibrillation (AF), the most common sustained cardiac arrhythmia, is associated with substantial morbidity, mortality, and healthcare use. Great strides have been made in stroke prevention and rhythm control strategies, yet reducing the incidence of AF has been slowed by the increasing incidence and prevalence of AF risk factors, including obesity, physical inactivity, sleep apnea, diabetes mellitus, hypertension, and other modifiable lifestyle-related factors. Fortunately, many of these AF drivers are potentially reversible, and emerging evidence supports that addressing these modifiable risks may be effective for primary and secondary AF prevention. A structured, protocol-driven multidisciplinary approach to integrate lifestyle and risk factor management as an integral part of AF management may help in the prevention and treatment of AF. However, this aspect of AF management is currently underrecognized, underused, and understudied. The purpose of this American Heart Association scientific statement is to review the association of modifiable risk factors with AF and the effects of risk factor intervention. Implementation strategies, care pathways, and educational links for achieving impactful weight reduction, increased physical activity, and risk factor modification are included. Implications for clinical practice, gaps in knowledge, and future directions for the research community are highlighted.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)E750-E772
JournalCirculation
Volume141
Issue number16
DOIs
StatePublished - Apr 21 2020

Bibliographical note

Publisher Copyright:
© 2020 Lippincott Williams and Wilkins. All rights reserved.

Keywords

  • AHA Scientific Statements
  • atrial fibrillation
  • exercise
  • lifestyle
  • obesity
  • risk factors
  • weight loss

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Lifestyle and Risk Factor Modification for Reduction of Atrial Fibrillation: A Scientific Statement From the American Heart Association'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this