Risk Factors for Atrial Fibrillation: A Review of Recent Evidence

• DOI: https://doi.org/10.22533/at.ed.15951825100412

• Palavras-chave: Atrial Fibrillation, Risk Factors, Prevention, Hypertension, Obstructive Sleep Apnea, Physical Inactivity, Alcohol Consumption, Diabetes Mellitus, Weight Loss, Cardiovascular Health.

• Keywords: Atrial Fibrillation, Risk Factors, Prevention, Hypertension, Obstructive Sleep Apnea, Physical Inactivity, Alcohol Consumption, Diabetes Mellitus, Weight Loss, Cardiovascular Health.

• Abstract:

  Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common sustained supraventricular arrhythmia, with a growing global incidence and prevalence, driven by population aging, increased obesity and longer survival of patients with concomitant cardiovascular diseases. In 2020, approximately 50 million people worldwide were affected by AF, with many cases remaining undiagnosed. AF is characterized by rapid and irregular atrial rhythms caused by ectopic electrical impulses or reentrant activity, usually originating in the pulmonary veins. The association between AF and decompensated heart failure results in worse clinical outcomes, such as increased mortality and prolonged hospitalizations. Treatment for AF includes electrical cardioversion, antiarrhythmics, catheter ablation and anticoagulation, all associated with high costs and risks. Therefore, preventive strategies focused on modifiable risk factors are essential. The main risk factors for AF include hypertension, obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), excessive alcohol consumption, obesity, sedentary lifestyle, smoking and diabetes mellitus. Evidence suggests that strict blood pressure control, regular moderate physical activity and treatment of OSA significantly reduce the risk of developing AF. Weight loss, especially in obese individuals, together with better glycemic control in patients with diabetes, also reduces the incidence of AF. This study highlights the importance of modifying lifestyle factors, such as weight control, regular physical activity, smoking cessation, glycemic control and OSA management, as effective preventive measures to reduce the occurrence and recurrence of AF. Early identification and intervention in modifiable risk factors are key to reducing the burden of AF and optimizing therapeutic strategies.