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Re: Age is the key factor

Dear Editor

One of the main concerns is that the incidence of atrial fibrillation increase with age; almost doubling every decade in adult life.[1] Although, there are various options available for the management of this very common condition, the main hurdle that we have to overcome in clinical practice is the age factor. Many of them develop side effects to the antiarrhytmic drugs which has been well documented in the AFFIRM study.[2]

Warfarinisation is difficult because of risk of falls especially in people with disability with stroke – in whom it is probably most useful. Compliance is also an issue in these patients. New surgical methods like radiofrequency pulmonary vein ablation and Maze procedures are coming into practice.[1] Though these new and exiting treatment options are becoming available, the concern is whether it be applicable to the older population who are most affected

References

1. Medical Progress ; Atrial Fibrillation Falk R. H. N Engl J Med 2001; 344:1067-1078, Apr 5, 2001.