Modifiable risk factors, symptoms, wellbeing and treatment expectations in patients with atrial fibrillation

Background/Aims Atrial fibrillation is the most common heart rhythm disorder, which increases the risk for stroke and heart failure, and commonly impairs quality of life. Increasing evidence has shown the causative role of several risk factors and suggested that aggressive lifestyle interventions might reduce atrial fibrillation incidence and effects. The size of the problem and how to provide optimal multidisciplinary management is less well known. This study aimed screened patients with atrial fibrillation for potentially modifiable risk factors and describe patients' symptom burden, wellbeing and treatment expectations. Methods The atrial fibrillation risk profile, symptom burden, wellbeing and expectations of future treatment were studied in 352 patients. Various questionnaires and instruments were used, in addition to medical history assessment. Results In total, 69% of patients had 1–5 possibly modifiable risk factors for atrial fibrillation: 50% were overweight/obese, 39% had a blood pressure of >140/90 mmHg, 28% had symptoms of obstructive sleep apnoea and 25% reported no physical exercise. Most patients had high expectations for their upcoming atrial fibrillation treatment, but men expected full recovery more often than women. Worries about future health and reduced survival were present in approximately 28% of patients. Conclusions Most patients with paroxysmal/persistent atrial fibrillation had potentially modifiable risk factors for atrial fibrillation and other cardiovascular events suitable for lifestyle interventions. Several patients experienced limitations in daily life, anxiety related to atrial fibrillation, and worry about their future health and survival. The results of this study might help identify relevant components for risk management and plan an individualised programme for atrial fibrillation patients.