Atrial fibrillation

What is atrial fibrillation?

Atrial fibrillation is the most common sustained cardiac arrhythmia resulting in irregular heartbeat, shortness of breath and dizziness. Patients face an increased risk of thrombo-embolic complications such as stroke. The incidence of atrial fibrillation is age-dependent: in the overall population roughly 1%, in the elderly population up to 20%. By 2050, the number of patients with atrial fibrillation is estimated to rise by 250% due to demographic aging in Western nations. Prevention and effective therapy of atrial fibrillation are unmet needs. Atrial fibrillation is therefore an increasingly serious healthcare problem.