Incident frailty and cognitive impairment by heart failure status in older patients with atrial fibrillation: the SAGE-AF study

BackgroundAtrial fibrillation (AF) and heart failure (HF) frequently co-occur in older individuals. Among patients with AF, HF increases risks for stroke and death, but the associations between HF and incident cognition and physical impairment remain unknown. We aimed to examine the cross-sectional and prospective associations between HF, cognition, and frailty among older patients with AF.MethodsThe SAGE-AF (Systematic Assessment of Geriatric Elements in AF) study enrolled 1244 patients with AF (mean age 76 years, 48% women) from five practices in Massachusetts and Georgia. HF at baseline was identified from electronic health records using ICD-9/10 codes. At baseline and 1-year, frailty was assessed by Cardiovascular Health Survey score and cognition was assessed by the Montreal Cognitive Assessment.ResultsPatients with prevalent HF (n = 463, 37.2%) were older, less likely to be non-Hispanic white, had less education, and had greater cardiovascular comorbidity burden and higher CHA₂DS₂VASC and HAS-BLED scores than patients without HF (all P''s < 0.01). In multivariable adjusted regression models, HF (present vs. absent) was associated with both prevalent frailty (adjusted odds ratio [aOR]: 2.38, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.64-3.46) and incident frailty at 1 year (aOR: 2.48, 95% CI: 1.37-4.51). HF was also independently associated with baseline cognitive impairment (aOR: 1.60, 95% CI: 1.22-2.11), but not with developing cognitive impairment at 1 year (aOR 1.04, 95%CI: 0.64-1.70).ConclusionsAmong ambulatory older patients with AF, the co-existence of HF identifies individuals with physical and cognitive impairments who are at higher short-term risk for becoming frail. Preventive strategies to this vulnerable subgroup merit consideration.     

Silent atrial fibrillation detected by home-monitoring: Cardiovascular disease and stroke prevention in patients with diabetes

ObjectivePatients with silent and undiagnosed paroxysmal atrial fibrillation and flutter (AF) have increased risk of ischemic stroke. Patients with diabetes have a higher risk of both AF and ischemic stroke compared to patients without diabetes. Our aim was to investigate the prevalence of silent AF in patients with diabetes in an outpatient cohort and to identify the possible risk factors associated with AF.Research design and methodsThis prospective observational study was performed in the outpatient diabetes clinic at a single University Hospital. We included 217 patients with type 1 or type 2 diabetes with at least one additional risk factor from the CHA₂DS₂VASc Score for Stroke Risk Assessment in Atrial Fibrillation. The primary outcome was prevalence of AF, with a duration of at least 30 s, recorded by a seven-day home-monitor, external loop recorder (ELR) in comparison to a standard resting ECG. Seventeen patients were excluded due to premature removal of the device.ResultsIn the final cohort of 200 patients the majority were male (58.5%) with a mean age of 66 ± 0.7 years. The mean BMI was 29 ± 6 and patients had a mean diabetes history of 23 ± 14 years with the majority diagnosed with type 2 diabetes (59%). Comorbidity was common with hypertension in 86%, and dyslipidemia in 80%. The total prevalence of silent AF [n = 20 (10%)] or flutter [n = 1 (0.5%)] was 10.5% using the ELR compared to a 0.0% detection-rate in the standard ECG method (p < 0.001). Higher age, male gender, albuminuria, and elevated systolic blood pressure were associated with AF in univariate analyses, but only age [OR 1.14 (95% CI = 1.00–2.04) (p = 0.048)], male gender [OR 4.9 (95% CI = 1.30–18.65) (p = 0.019)] and albuminuria [OR 2.7 (95% CI =1.08–6.98) (p = 0.034) were independently associated with AF. Mean CHA₂DS₂VASc Score was ≥2 (4.1, SD ± 1.6), and patients with AF were referred to further cardiac evaluation.ConclusionUndiagnosed, silent AF is common in high-risk cohort with a long history of diabetes followed in a University Hospital outpatient clinic. Non-invasive monitoring with ELR enhances detection of AF and identifies candidates for early anticoagulation treatment with the possible effect of stroke prevention.     

Obesity,self-reported symptom severity,and quality of life in people with atrial fibrillation: A community-based cross-sectional survey

Background and aimsIntentional weight loss may reduce symptom severity of atrial fibrillation (AF) in relatively young AF patients with overweight. We examined whether symptom severity and quality of life (QoL) are associated with weight status in the general population with AF.Methods and resultsPatients with electrocardiogram-confirmed AF completed validated questionnaires: the EuroQol 5 Dimensions QoL questionnaire and the Toronto Atrial Fibrillation Severity Scale (AFSS). The AFSS assessed the AF burden scoring on AF-related symptoms and the total AF burden measured as a combination of duration, frequency, and severity of an irregular heartbeat. Generalized liner models examined the association of body mass index (BMI) with AF severity and QoL adjusting for confounders. Between 2018 and 2019, 882 of 1901 (46%) mailed questionnaires were returned completed. Participants had a mean (SD) age of 74 (10) years old and a BMI of 27.4 (5.6) kg/m². Sixteen percent reported having never experienced an irregular heartbeat. A 5 kg/m² higher BMI was associated with a 0.65 (95%CI: 0.25 to 1.06) higher symptom score, where 3 points represent a clinically relevant change in state. A 5 kg/m² higher BMI was associated with a −1.61 (95%CI: −2.72 to −0.50) lower QoL score. The coefficient of the total AF burden for a 5 kg/m² higher BMI was 0.17 (95% CI: −0.01 to 0.68).ConclusionBMI was positively associated with symptoms and negatively associated with one of the two measures of QoL, but not with the total AF burden. However, the strength of association was small and not clinically meaningful.     

Low vitamin D levels predict left atrial thrombus in nonvalvular atrial fibrillation

Background and aimsWe determined the association between left atrial (LA) thrombus occurrence and a non-classic risk marker, plasma levels of vitamin D, in atrial fibrillation (AF) patients on continuous non-vitamin K antagonist oral anticoagulant (NOAC) therapy for ≥4 weeks. Low levels of plasma 25-hydroxy vitamin D (25-OHD) are predictive of fatal stroke. Vitamin D has anticoagulant effects on the coagulation cascade, which are indirectly targeted by NOAC therapy. The impact of plasma levels of vitamin D on the rate of LA thrombus detected by transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) in AF patients is unknown.Methods and resultsWe enrolled 201 (133 female) AF patients who were using continuous NOAC therapy for ≥4 weeks. All patients underwent transthoracic and TEE examination. Serum concentrations of 25-OHD, C-reactive protein (CRP) levels, CHA₂DS₂-VASc scores and parameters, LA size, and left ventricle ejection fraction (LVEF) were examined before the TEE procedure. LA thrombus occurrence was independently associated with serum levels of 25-OHD (OR: 0.884; 95% CI: 0.839–0.932; P < 0.001), LA diameter (OR: 1.120; 95% CI: 1.038–1.209; P = 0.003), and LVEF(OR: 0.944; 95% CI: 0.896–0.995; P = 0.032). Dense spontaneous echo contrast (SEC) presence was also inversely associated with 25-OHD concentrations.ConclusionsLow 25-OHD levels, as a non-classic risk factor, were independently and significantly associated with dense SEC and LA thrombus occurrence in AF patients under NOAC therapy, as well as LA enlargement and decreased LVEF. Further large-scale studies are needed to explain the role of vitamin D deficiency, or efficacy of replacement, on LA thrombus occurrence.     

Stroke event rates in anticoagulated patients with paroxysmal atrial fibrillation

Aims. To test the hypothesis that stroke and systemic embolic events (SEE) in the stroke prevention using an oral thrombin inhibitor in atrial fibrillation (SPORTIF) III and V trials are different between paroxysmal and persistent atrial fibrillation (AF). Methods. Data analysis from two cohorts of patients enroled in the prospective SPORTIF III and V clinical trials (n = 7329); 836 subjects (11.4%) with paroxysmal AF [mean age 70.1 years (SD = 9.5)] were compared with 6493 subjects with persistent AF for this ancillary study. Results. The annual event rates for stroke/SEE are 1.73% for persistent AF and 0.93% for paroxysmal AF. In a multivariate analysis, after adjusting for stroke risk factors, gender and aspirin usage, the differences remained statistically significant with a higher hazard ratio (HR) for stroke/SEE in persistent AF [vs. paroxysmal AF, HR 1.87, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.04–3.36; P = 0.037]. In ‘high risk’ patients (with ≥2 stroke risk factors) annual event rates for stroke/SEE were 2.08% for persistent AF and 1.27% for paroxysmal AF (adjusted HR = 1.68, 95% CI 0.91–3.1, P = 0.098). Elderly patients had annual event rates for stroke/SEE of 2.38% for persistent AF and 1.13% for paroxysmal AF (adjusted HR = 2.27, 95% CI 0.92–5.59, P = 0.075). Vitamin K antagonist (VKA)‐naïve paroxysmal AF patients had a 1.89%/year stroke/SEE rate, compared with 0.61% for previous VKA takers (HR = 0.33, 95% CI 0.11–1.01, P = 0.052). Conclusion. In this large clinical trial cohort of anticoagulated AF patients, those with paroxysmal AF had stroke rates which were lower than for patients with persistent AF, although both groups had broadly similar stroke risk factors. Subjects with paroxysmal AF at ‘high risk’ had stroke/SEE rates that were not significantly different to persistent AF subjects.     

Association of proteinuria with incident atrial fibrillation in the general Japanese population

BackgroundAlthough proteinuria has been associated with incident atrial fibrillation (AF) in Western countries, the association has not been investigated in the general Japanese population.MethodsParticipants aged ≥40 years who underwent the Japanese specific health check-up in Kanazawa City in 2013 and who completed a urine dipstick test were included in this study. Exposure was considered as presence or absence of proteinuria (≥1+). The outcome was incident AF confirmed by 12-lead electrocardiography. The Cox proportional hazard model was used to compute hazard ratio (HR) of proteinuria (≥1+) for incident AF after adjustment for traditional risk factors. We also completed stratified analyses by baseline characteristics.ResultsA total of 37,910 participants aged ≥40 years were included (mean age: 72.3 years, male sex: 37%). Proteinuria ≥1+ was observed in 2.765 (7.3%) participants. During a median follow-up period of 5 years, 708 incident AF cases were observed. Proteinuria ≥1+ was associated with incident AF (HR, 1.47: 95% confidence interval, 1.18–1.84) after covariate adjustment. Stratified analysis demonstrated that the association of proteinuria with AF was stronger in participants <75 years [HR 1.89 (95% CI 1.32–2.70)] compared with those ≥75 years [HR 1.27 (95% CI 0.95–1.69)] (interaction p-value = 0.02).ConclusionsProteinuria was significantly associated with incident AF in the general Japanese population. The evaluation of proteinuria using urine dipstick test may be useful in the evaluation of incident AF, especially in younger general population.     

Cardiac resynchronization therapy in patients with atrial fibrillation: A meta-analysis

Background and ObjectiveTo combine the results of the best scientific evidence in order to compare the effects of cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) in heart failure patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) and in sinus rhythm (SR) and to determine the effect of atrioventricular nodal ablation in AF patients.MethodsThe electronic databases PubMed, B-On and Cochrane CENTRAL were searched, and manual searches were performed, for randomized controlled trials and cohort studies up to November 2012. The endpoints analyzed were all-cause and cardiovascular mortality and response to CRT.ResultsWe included 19 studies involving 5324 patients: 1399 in AF and 3925 in SR. All-cause mortality was more likely in patients with AF compared to patients in SR (OR=1.69; 95% CI: 1.20–2.37; p=0.002). There were no statistically significant differences in cardiovascular mortality (OR=1.36; 95% CI: 0.92–2.01; p=0.12). AF was associated with an increased likelihood of lack of response to CRT (OR=1.41; 95% CI: 1.15–1.73; p=0.001). Among subjects with AF, ablation of the atrioventricular node was associated with a reduction in all-cause mortality (OR=0.42; 95% CI: 0.22–0.80; p=0.008), cardiovascular death (OR=0.39; 95% CI: 0.20–0.75; p=0.005) and the number of non-responders to CRT (OR=0.30; 95% CI: 0.10–0.90; p=0.03).ConclusionsThe presence of AF is associated with increased likelihood of all-cause death and non-response to CRT, compared to patients in SR. However, many patients with AF benefit from CRT. Atrioventricular nodal ablation appears to increase the benefits of CRT in patients with AF.     

Relation of obesity to recurrence rate and burden of atrial fibrillation

Obesity is associated with new-onset atrial fibrillation (AF). However, the effect of obesity on AF recurrence or burden has not been studied. The aim of this study was to investigate the relation between AF recurrence, AF burden, and body mass index (BMI). A limited-access data set from the Atrial Fibrillation Follow-Up Investigation of Rhythm Management (AFFIRM) trial provided by the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute was used. Statistical analysis was done with a generalized linear mixed model. In 2,518 patients who had BMIs recorded, higher BMI was associated with a higher number of cardioversions (odds ratio [OR] 1.017, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.005 to 1.029 for a BMI increase of 1 kg/m(2); OR 1.088, 95% CI 1.024 to 1.155 for a BMI increase of 5 kg/m(2); OR 1.183, 95% CI 1.049 to 1.334 for a BMI increase of 10 kg/m(2); p = 0.006 for each). Increased BMI was also associated with a higher likelihood of being in AF on follow-up (OR 1.020, 95% CI 1.002 to 1.038 per 1 kg/m(2) increased BMI, p = 0.0283; OR 1.104, 95% CI 1.011 to 1.205 per 5 kg/m(2) increased BMI, p = 0.0283; OR 1.218, 95% CI 1.021 to 1.452 per 10 kg/m(2) increased BMI, p = 0.0283). In a multivariate analysis, left atrial size but not BMI was an independent predictor of AF recurrence and AF burden. Because left atrial size was correlated with BMI, the effect of BMI on AF can be likely explained by greater left atrial size in subjects with higher BMIs. In conclusion, obesity is associated with a higher incidence of recurrence of AF and greater AF burden.     

Anticoagulant therapy and risk of cerebrovascular events after catheter ablation of atrial fibrillation in the elderly

Stroke and Atrial Fibrillation Ablation . Introduction: Factors associated with cerebrovascular events (CVEs) after radiofrequency catheter ablation (RFA) of atrial fibrillation (AF) have not been well defined in elderly patients (≥65 years). The purpose of this study was to determine the prevalence and predictors of CVEs after RFA in patients with AF ≥65 years old, in comparison to patients <65 years, and with or without AF. Methods and Results: This study included 508 consecutive patients ≥65 years old (mean age: 70 ± 4 years), who underwent RFA for paroxysmal (297) or persistent (211) AF. A stratified group of 508 patients < 65 years old who underwent RFA for AF served as a control group. All patients were anticoagulated with warfarin for ≥3 months after RFA. A perioperative CVE (≤4 weeks after RFA) occurred in 0.8% and 1% of patients ≥65 and <65 years old, respectively (P = 1). Among the patients ≥65 years old who remained in sinus rhythm after RFA, warfarin was discontinued in 60% and 56% of the patients with a CHADS₂ score of 0 and ≥1, respectively. Paroxysmal AF, no history of CVE, and successful RFA were independent predictors of discontinuing warfarin. During a mean follow‐up of 3 ± 2 years, a late CVE (>4 weeks after the RFA) occurred in 15 of 508 (3%) of patients ≥65 years old (1% per year) and in 5 of 508 (1%) patients <65 years old (0.3% per year, P = 0.03). Among patients ≥65 years old, age >75 years old (OR = 4.9, ±95% CI: 3.3–148.5, P = 0.001) was the only independent predictor of a CVE. Among patients <65 years old, body mass index was the only independent predictor of a late CVE (OR = 1.2, ±95% CI: 1.03–1.33, P = 0.02). Conclusions: The risk of a periprocedural CVE after RFA of AF is similar among patients ≥65 and <65 years old. Late CVEs after RFA are more prevalent in older than younger patients with AF, and age >75 years old is the only independent predictor of late CVEs regardless of the rhythm, anticoagulation status, or the CHADS₂ score (Congestive heart failure, Hypertension, Age ≥ 75 years, Diabetes mellitus and prior Stroke or transient ischemic attack). (J Cardiovasc Electrophysiol, Vol. 23, pp. 36‐43, January 2012)     

Diabetes and atrial fibrillation in hospitalized patients in the United States

BackgroundData on the burden of atrial fibrillation (AF) associated with diabetes among hospitalized patients are scarce. We assessed the AF‐related hospitalizations trends in patients with diabetes, and compared AF outcomes in patients with diabetes to those without diabetes.HypothesisAF‐related health outcomes differ between patient with diabetes and without diabetes.MethodsUsing the National Inpatient Sample (NIS) 2004–2014, we studied trends in AF hospitalization rate among diabetic patients, and compared in‐hospital case fatality rate, length of stay (LOS), cost and utilization of rhythm control therapies, and 30‐day readmission rate between patients with and without diabetes. Logistic or Cox regression models were used to assess the differences in AF outcomes by diabetes status.ResultsOver the study period, there were 4 325 522 AF‐related hospitalizations, of which 1 075 770 (24.9%) had a diagnosis of diabetes. There was a temporal increase in AF hospitalization rate among diabetic patients (10.4 to 14.4 per 1000 hospitalizations among patients with diabetes; +4.4% yearly change, p‐trend < .0001). Among AF patients, those with diabetes had a lower in‐hospital mortality (adjusted odds ratio [aOR]: 0.68; 95% CI: 0.65–0.72) and LOS (aOR: 0.95; 95% CI: 0.94–0.96), but no difference in costs (aOR: 0.95; 95% CI: 0.94–0.96) and a higher 30‐day rate of readmissions compared with no diabetes (aHR 1.05; 95% CI: 1.01–1.08), compared to individuals without diabetes.ConclusionAF and diabetes coexist among hospitalized patients, with rising trends over the last decade. Diabetes is associated with lower rates in‐hospital adverse AF outcomes, but a higher 30‐day readmission risk.     

Relationships between paroxysmal atrial fibrillation,total oxidant status,and DNA damage

IntroductionStructural and electrophysiological changes play a critical role in the development of atrial fibrillation (AF). Although the pathophysiology of paroxysmal AF (PAF) has not been fully elucidated, oxidative stress (OS) and DNA damage appear to be important triggers. Thus far, no studies have investigated the relationships among total oxidant status (TOS), DNA damage, and PAF. The goal of this study was to assess TOS and DNA damage in patients with PAF.MethodsThis cross-sectional study included 56 patients with PAF and 31 healthy controls. OS was assessed based on TOS, total antioxidant capacity (TAC), and oxidative stress index (OSI). The level of DNA damage was assessed using 8-hydroxy-2′-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG).ResultsThere were no significant differences between the groups in terms of baseline characteristics. However, patients with PAF had significantly higher high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (p=0.018), TOS (p=0.001), OSI (p=0.001), and 8-OHdG (p=0.019) levels, compared with the control group. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that serum TOS level (odds ratio: 1.608; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.188-2.176, p=0.002) was the only independent predictor of PAF. TOS ≥12.2 predicted PAF with a sensitivity of 82% and specificity of 76% (AUC: 0.785, 95% CI: 0.687-0.883, p<0.001).ConclusionWe found that TOS and DNA damage were significantly greater in patients with PAF than in the control group. Therefore, we propose that TOS and DNA damage can be used to detect patients at higher risk of AF.     

Prevalence,clinical profile,and stroke risk of atrial fibrillation in rural Andhra Pradesh,India (the AP-AF study)

The burden of atrial fibrillation (AF) is increasing worldwide. It is often asymptomatic, with stroke being the first manifestation in some. AF burden in the community and the practice of stroke prophylaxis has not been studied in India. The problem might be higher in rural regions due to poor health awareness and challenges to healthcare access. This study aimed to estimate the prevalence of AF, clinical profile and stroke risk in rural India.MethodsThis is a community-based cross-sectional study done in rural Andhra Pradesh (AP). Adults from 40 villages formed the study population. We did a door-to door survey to collect information on demographics, and medical history. Electrocardiogram was recorded using a smart phone based Alivecor device. Participants diagnosed with AF underwent echocardiogram. Study cardiologists assessed the cardiovascular risk profile and collected detailed medical history.ResultsFourteen of the 4281 individuals screened had AF (0.3%). The mean age of the sampled population was 44 ± 16.5 years with 56% women. The mean age of participants with AF was 71 ±7.8 years; males were 71%. Except for one, all were non-valvular AF. Majority had a CHA₂D₂S₂Vasc score of ≥2. Three had history of stroke. Two were on anticoagulant therapy but without INR monitoring.ConclusionThe prevalence of AF is lower in this study compared to studies from the developed countries. Non-rheumatic cardiovascular risk factors were primary causes for AF. Non-adherence to stroke prophylaxis is a major threat that needs to be addressed.     

Annual incidence of atrial fibrillation and related factors in adults

The aim of this study was to investigate the annual incidence of atrial fibrillation (AF) and related factors from health surveys in 2006 and 2007. Participants (aged ≥ 40 years) were examined from annual health surveys provided by the Kurashiki Public Health Center twice, in 2006 and 2007. Participants were classified into 2 groups: a control group without AF in 2006 and 2007, and an AF group with documented AF in 2007 but not in 2006. Annual AF incidence (per 1,000 patient-years) was calculated, and baseline characteristics were compared between groups. Independent factors for new documented AF were analyzed using multivariate logistic regression modeling. Health surveys were performed for 30,449 participants in 2006 and 2007. Excluding 439 participants with AF in 2006, newly documented AF was observed in 278 participants (0.9%), while the control group comprised 29,732 participants. The overall incidence of newly documented AF was 9.3/1,000 patient-years. Newly documented AF was significantly associated with age ≥ 80 years (odds ratio [OR] 1.57, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.20 to 2.06, p = 0.001), history of cardiac disease (OR 7.47, 95% CI 5.79 to 9.63, p < 0.001), increasing estimated glomerular filtration rate of 10 ml/min/1.73 m(2) (OR 0.93, 95% CI 0.87 to 0.99, p = 0.025), and hypercholesterolemia (OR 0.75, 95% CI 0.58 to 0.96, p = 0.023).     

The effectiveness of SGLT2 inhibitor in the incidence of atrial fibrillation/atrial flutter in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus/heart failure: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BackgroundType 2 diabetes mellitus (T2D) and heart failure (HF) are closely related to the increased risk of atrial fibrillation (AF)/atrial flutter (AFL). However, massive clinical studies have shown that sodium glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitor (SGLT2i) affects the occurrence of AF/AFL and its complications, but the promoting or inhibitory effect of SGLT2i on AF/AFL and its complications and the exact probability is not clear, meta-analysis can combine the existing research data to easily solve the clinical problems.MethodsWe performed a search in the registers of ClinicalTrials.gov from it,s inception to March 2021 to evaluate the occurrence of AF/AFL adverse events in SGLT2i in patients with T2D/HF. Almost all of the included studies were double-blind parallel allocation randomized controlled studies, and only one was open. The control groups all included placebo, some of which also included glimepiride, metformin, liraglutide, etc. Quality risk assessment of the included randomized controlled trials (RCTs) was conducted using Cochrane RoB 2.0., and the publication bias assessment was conducted using STATA 17.0. The odds ratio (OR) combined effect of 95% confidence interval (CI) was used for bivariate variables.ResultsWe included data from 22 confirmed trials that included 52,951 T2D/HF patients. The studies had no risk of bias. Analysis of the cumulative results showed that compared with placebo, SGLT2i can significantly reduce the incidence of AF/AFL by 18% (OR =0.82, 95% CI: 0.73 to 0.93, P=0.002), and reduce the incidence of arrhythmia by 14% (OR =0.86, 95% CI: 0.79 to 0.94, P=0.0006); among them, the incidence of AF/AFL in T2D patients was reduced by 20% (OR =0.80, 95% CI: 0.69 to 0.92, P=0.002); Dapagliflozin reduced the incidence of AF/AFL by 15% (OR =0.85, 95% CI: 0.74 to 0.98, P=0.03); the incidence of intracardiac thrombosis decreased by 69% (OR =0.31, 95% CI: 0.10 to 0.91, P=0.03), while the incidence of AF/AFL in women decreased by 17% (OR =0.83, 95% CI: 0.72 to 0.94, P=0.004).DiscussionThis article provides a new direction for the use of SGLT2i, and hopefully it can provide certain theoretical basis for the broader clinical indications of SGLT2i in the future.     

Type of atrial fibrillation and outcomes in patients without oral anticoagulants

BackgroundThe effect of type of atrial fibrillation (AF) on adverse outcomes in Chinese patients without oral anticoagulants (OAC) was controversial.HypothesisThe type of AF associated with adverse outcomes in Chinese patients without OAC.MethodsA total of 1358 AF patients without OAC from a multicenter, prospective, observational study was included for analysis. Univariable and multivariable Cox regression models were utilized. Net reclassification improvement analysis was performed for the assessment of risk prediction models.ResultsThere were 896(66%) patients enrolled with non‐paroxysmal AF (NPAF) and 462(34%) with paroxysmal AF (PAF). The median age was 70.9 ± 12.6 years, and 682 patients (50.2%) were female. During 1 year of follow‐up, 215(16.4%) patients died, and 107 (8.1%) patients experienced thromboembolic events. Compared with the PAF group, NPAF group had a notably higher incidence of all‐cause mortality (20.2% vs. 9.4%, p < .001), thromboembolism (10.5% vs. 3.8%, p < .001). After multivariable adjustment, NPAF was a strong predictor of thromboembolism (HR 2.594, 95%CI 1.534–4.386; p < .001), all‐cause death (HR 1.648, 95%CI 1.153–2.355; p = .006). Net reclassification improvement analysis indicated that the addition of NPAF to the CHA₂DS₂‐VASc score allowed an improvement of 0.37 in risk prediction for thromboembolic events (95% CI 0.21–0.53; p < .001).ConclusionsIn Chinese AF patients who were not on OAC, NPAF was an independent predictor of thromboembolism and mortality. The addition of NPAF to the CHA₂DS₂‐VASc score allowed an improvement in the accuracy of the prediction of thromboembolic events.     

Relation of renal function to risk for incident atrial fibrillation in women

Few prospective studies have explored the association between renal function and risk for incident atrial fibrillation (AF) in apparently healthy populations. A total of 24,746 women participating in the Women's Health Study who were free of cardiovascular disease and AF and provided blood samples at baseline were prospectively followed for incident AF from 1993 to 2010. AF events were confirmed by medical chart review. Estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) was calculated from baseline creatinine using the Chronic Kidney Disease Epidemiology (CKD-EPI) equation. Cox models were used to estimate hazard ratios and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for incident AF across eGFR categories controlling for AF risk factors. During a median of 15.4 years of follow-up, 786 incident AF events occurred. The multivariate-adjusted hazard ratios for incident AF across eGFR categories (<60, 60 to 74.9, 75 to 89, and ≥90 ml/min/1.73 m(2)) were 1.36 (95% CI 1.00 to 1.84), 0.90 (95% CI 0.71 to 1.14), 0.99 (95% CI 0.84 to 1.18) and 1.00, respectively, without evidence of a linear association (P for trend = 0.48). Similarly, there was no significant curvilinear association (quadratic p = 0.10) in multivariate analysis across categories. Compared to women with eGFRs ≥60 ml/min/1.73 m(2), the 1,008 women with eGFRs <60 ml/min/1.73 m(2) had a multivariate-adjusted hazard ratio for AF of 1.39 (95% CI 1.04 to 1.86, p = 0.03). In conclusion, no significant linear or curvilinear relation was observed between incident AF and less severe impairment of renal function in this large prospective cohort of women. However, a significant elevation in AF risk was observed at a threshold eGFR of <60 ml/min/1.73 m(2).     

Pacemaker-detected atrial fibrillation burden and risk of ischemic stroke or thromboembolic events—A cohort study

BackgroundAtrial fibrillation (AF) burden might link to increased risk of systemic embolism. Current scoring systems for evaluating stroke risks such as CHA₂DS₂-VASc do not incorporate AF burden partly because of the difficulty to assess these data. Patients with dual-chamber pacemakers implanted have opportunities to acquire incidence and duration of AF.ObjectivesWe aimed to evaluate the AF burden and its association with thromboembolism in patients with dual-chamber pacemakers.MethodsThis retrospective cohort study enrolled patients who underwent dual-chamber pacemaker implantation at our center between October 2003 and May 2017. We excluded patients with prior thromboembolism or receiving anticoagulants. The incidence and duration of pacemaker-detected AF were compared between patients with and without thromboembolic outcomes. Propensity score matching (1:1) was conducted based on clinical characteristics. Multivariate regressions were performed to determine the predictors of thromboembolic outcomes. Survival free from stroke and thromboembolism was assessed using Kaplan–Meier analysis in groups with different AF burden.ResultsAmong the 152 patients enrolled (43.4% women; age 73.2 ± 13.3 years), ten experienced thromboembolic events within a median follow-up of 67 months. Patients with thromboembolisms had higher CHA₂DS₂-VASc scores but not higher AF burden. Higher CHA₂DS₂-VASc score was associated with increased risk for systemic thromboembolism [hazard ratio (HR), 1.87; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.07–3.24; P = 0.027). In the propensity score-matched cohort with comparable CHA₂DS₂-VASc score, patients with thromboembolism had higher AF burden. Pacemaker-detected AF was associated with increased risk for thromboembolism (propensity-adjusted HR, 9.33; 95% CI, 1.19–72.99; P = 0.033). Experiencing AF episodes lasting >6 min was a predictor of significantly higher risk of future stroke or thromboembolism (propensity-adjusted HR, 6.75; 95% CI, 1.30–35.11; P = 0.023).ConclusionIn patients with dual-chamber pacemakers and comparable CHA₂DS₂-VASc score, pacemaker-detected AF burden is associated with elevated risk for thromboembolism. Further research is needed to clarify how pacemaker-detected AF burden could incorporate with CHA₂DS₂-VASc score variables and help to guide anticoagulation.     

Association of right bundle branch block or intraventricular conduction delay with recurrence of atrial fibrillation after catheter ablation

Background

The association between bundle branch block (BBB) and recurrence of atrial fibrillation (AF) after catheter ablation is unclear. The aim of this study was to determine whether AF combined with BBB is associated with AF recurrence after catheter ablation.

Methods

A total of 477 consecutive AF patients who underwent catheter ablation were included. The AF patients were divided into three groups according to BBB: AF without BBB (n = 427), AF with right bundle branch block (AF with RBBB) (n = 16), and AF with intraventricular conduction delay (AF with IVCD) (n = 34).

Results

Of the 477 AF patients (mean age 57 years, 81% men, median CHA₂DS₂-VASc score of 1), 16 (3.4%) patients had RBBB, and 34 (7.1%) patients had IVCD. During a mean follow-up of 15.2 ± 6.7 months, 119 patients (24.9%) had recurrence of AF. Of these, 111 (26%) patients were in the AF without BBB group, with 2 (12.5%) and 6 (17.6%) patients in the RBBB and IVCD groups, respectively. The Kaplan–Meier estimate of the rate of recurrent AF was not significantly different among the three groups (p = .39). Multivariable analysis showed that persistent AF (HR 1.7, 95% CI 1.15–2.50, p = .007), chronic kidney disease (HR 2.94, 95% CI 1.20–7.17, p = .01), and left atrial diameter (HR 1.04, 95% CI 1.009–1.082, p = .01) were significantly associated with AF recurrence.

Conclusion

AF with BBB was not significantly associated with the recurrence of AF after catheter ablation in middle-aged patients with low-risk cardiovascular profile.     

Physical,Psychological, Social,and Existential Symptoms in Older Homeless-Experienced Adults: An Observational Study of the Hope Home Cohort

Background

The homeless population in the United States is aging. Aging-associated comorbidities are associated with increased symptoms.

Objective

To describe the prevalence of symptoms among older homeless-experienced adults, analyze factors associated with moderate–high physical symptom burden, and identify symptom clusters.

Design

Cross-sectional analysis within longitudinal cohort study.

Participants

Using population-based sampling from shelters, meal programs, encampments, and a recycling center in Oakland, CA, we recruited homeless adults aged?≥?50 for a longitudinal cohort. This study includes participants who participated in the 18-month follow-up visit.

Main Measures

We assessed physical symptoms using the Patient Health Questionnaire–15 (PHQ-15); psychological symptoms using the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale (CES-D), Primary Care PTSD Screen (PC-PTSD), and psychiatric section of the Addiction Severity Index (ASI); loneliness using the Three-Item Loneliness Scale; and regret using a six-item regret scale.

Key Results

Two hundred eighty-three participants (75.6% men and 82.3% African-Americans) completed symptoms interviews. Over a third (34.0%) had moderate–high physical symptom burden. The most prevalent physical symptoms were joint pain, fatigue, back pain, and sleep trouble. Over half (57.6%) had psychological symptoms; 39.6% exhibited loneliness and 26.5% had high regret. In a multivariate model, being a woman (AOR 2.54, 95% CI 1.28–5.03), childhood abuse (AOR 1.88, 95% CI 1.00–3.50), cannabis use (AOR 2.59, 95% CI 1.38–4.89), multimorbidity (AOR 2.50, 95% CI 1.36–4.58), anxiety (AOR 4.30, 95% CI 2.24–8.26), hallucinations (AOR 3.77, 95% CI 1.36–10.43), and loneliness (AOR 2.32, 95% CI 1.26–4.28) were associated with moderate–high physical symptom burden. We identified four symptom clusters: minimal overall (n?=?129), moderate overall (n?=?68), high physical and high psychological (n?=?67), and high physical and low psychological (n?=?17).

Conclusions

Older homeless-experienced adults exhibit a high prevalence of symptoms across multiple dimensions. To reduce suffering, clinicians should recognize the interaction between symptoms and address multiple symptom dimensions.