Atrial fibrillation (AF) is one of the most common cardiac arrhythmias and is associated with increased morbidity and mortality. It occurs due to deterioration of atrial mechanical function that disrupt the heart’s normal rhythm, causing irregular and sometimes rapid heart rate. This can impair the heart’s pumping efficiency and increase the risk of serious complications, particularly stroke.
“Studies have shown that AF increases a patient’s risk of stroke and is associated with factors such as older age, male sex, hypertension and ischaemic heart disease. AF contributes substantially to morbidity, reduces health-related quality of life and significantly increases the risk of cardiovascular events, particularly stroke,” said Prof. Dr Hoo Fan Kee, president of the Malaysia Stroke Council.
He further emphasised the importance of raising public awareness about AF and its potential consequences. According to the Global Burden of Disease study published in 2016, one in four Malaysians was estimated to be at risk of suffering a stroke by 2040 if preventive measures were not taken to address lifestyle-related risk factors.
Raising awareness of atrial fibrillation (AF) is an important first step towards helping more people understand the condition and seek timely medical attention. Early diagnosis and appropriate management can help reduce the risk of stroke, heart failure and other cardiovascular complications. Greater public awareness and timely intervention may also help ease the long-term healthcare burden associated with non-communicable diseases.
