Study Shows AFib on the Rise in Younger Americans
September is National Atrial Fibrillation Awareness Month
9/26/2024
Dr. John Johnkoski, Aspirus Cardiothoracic Surgeon
Atrial Fibrillation
(AFib), a common type of irregular heart rhythm, poses a significant risk of
stroke and heart failure, particularly among individuals under 65. Recent
research highlights an alarming trend: the rising prevalence of AFib in younger
patients.
A study published in
Circulation:
Arrhythmia and Electrophysiology analyzed data from over 67,000 patients
seeking care for AFib, revealing that more than 25 percent were under 65—far
exceeding the previously estimated 2 percent for this age group.
“Atrial fibrillation
is a condition where the top two chambers of the heart quiver when they're not
functioning properly, making it harder for the rest of the heart to work,”
explained John
Johnkoski, MD, a cardiothoracic surgeon at Aspirus Heart & Lung Surgery.
“Factors like obesity, diabetes, high blood pressure, and sleep apnea are
driving the rise in AFib among younger people.”
Symptoms of AFib can
include dizziness, fatigue, shortness of breath, or palpitations in the chest.
Some individuals may not notice any symptoms at all, underscoring the
importance of early diagnosis and management.
“We’re now seeing
signs of heart disease in 40-year-olds we previously observed in people in
their 50s, highlighting an accelerated aging process,” says Dr. Johnkoski,
emphasizing the urgency of early intervention. “It’s a lot easier to manage and
treat AFib when we address it sooner, which can help prevent downstream
complications such as stroke, heart attack, and heart failure.”
There are several
ways to treat atrial fibrillation, depending on the individual’s specific
situation. Common options include medications, cardioversion, catheter
ablation, or minimally invasive surgery such as the Maze procedure.
Additionally, making changes to diet, exercise, and managing stress can help
improve symptoms.
No matter what your
age, it’s important for individuals with AFib to work closely with their doctor
to find the best approach for their situation.
The Atrial
Fibrillation Clinic at Aspirus Heart Care offers comprehensive care for
patients with atrial arrhythmias. The clinic allows patients to see both an
electrophysiologist (EP) and cardiothoracic surgeon in the same setting to
learn about treatment options. For information regarding referrals, scheduling,
or to answer general questions, please call 866.783.6266.
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