[15] Obesity and Atrial Fibrillation (AF) - Clinical Evidence and Mechanisms

Question 1

What is AF?

Answer 1

Atrial Fibrillation, an irregular and often rapid heart rate

Question 2

Obesity’s impact on new-onset AF according to meta-analyses?

Answer 2

• 50% increase for BMI > 30 kg/m^2
• 10-29% increase for every 5 kg/m^2 increase in BMI

Question 3

What is BMI?

Answer 3

Body Mass Index, a measure of body fat based on height and weight

Question 4

How do genetics correlate obesity and AF?

Answer 4

• Mendelian Randomization studies show a link
• 39 single-nucleotide polymorphisms associated with both increased BMI and higher AF risk

Question 5

What is Mendelian Randomization?

Answer 5

Method using genetic variants as instrumental variables to identify causal effects

Question 6

Key Mechanisms of Obesity-Induced AF?

Answer 6

• Adipokines and Bioactive Molecules
• ERP, LA Pressures, and Volumes
• Metabolic Risk Factors and Cardiac Changes
• Adaptive Remodeling and Inflammation

Question 7

What is ERP?

Answer 7

Effective Refractory Period, a period when the heart can’t generate another action potential

Question 8

What changes in ERP, LA pressures, and volumes due to obesity?

Answer 8

• Shorter ERP
• Higher LA pressures and volumes