DISEASE SCANNER
Global Incurable Diseases Tracker
Atrial Fibrillation
The most common sustained cardiac arrhythmia, characterized by chaotic electrical activity in the atria leading to irregular ventricular response. Increases risk of stroke five-fold and heart failure. Prevalence increases with age, affecting ~10% of people over 80.
60.0M
111
Symptoms
Treatment Options
Risk Factors
Diagnostic Methods
- 1ECG (12-lead or ambulatory)
- 2Holter monitoring
- 3Event recorder
- 4Implantable loop recorder
- 5Echocardiogram
- 6Thyroid function tests
- 7Stress testing
- 8Electrophysiology study
Prognosis
Stroke risk 4-5x higher than sinus rhythm; heart failure risk increased. With proper anticoagulation, stroke risk reduced by 60-70%. Quality of life often significantly impaired. Mortality approximately doubled compared to matched controls.
Prevention
- Blood pressure control
- Weight management
- Alcohol moderation
- Sleep apnea treatment
- Regular exercise
- Diabetes management
- Thyroid disorder treatment
- Early detection programs
Research Status
Catheter ablation (pulmonary vein isolation) increasingly first-line for symptomatic patients. Left atrial appendage occlusion (Watchman) for stroke prevention in anticoagulation-contraindicated patients. Digital health/AI for early detection via smartwatches.
Affected Countries
Sources
- https://www.cdc.gov/
- https://www.hematology.org/education/patients
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books
- https://rarediseases.org/rare-diseases
Medical Disclaimer
This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult healthcare professionals for medical advice, diagnosis, and treatment.