RISK FACTOR PROFILE IN PATIENTS DIAGNOSED WITH ATRIAL FIBRILLATION IN A TERTIARY CARE CENTRE – AN OBSERVATIONAL STUDY

Background: Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common sustained cardiac arrhythmia seen in clinical practice. It is characterized by an irregular and often rapid heart rate. As people age, the risk of AF increases, making it more prevalent in older adults. Understanding the risk factors associated with AF is crucial for effective management and prevention of these adverse outcomes. Aim: To analyse the risk factor profile in patients diagnosed with atrial fibrillation. Materials And Methods: This is a descriptive study to analyse the risk factor profile in patients diagnosed with atrial fibrillation. The study was conducted in a tertiary care centre situated in Bengaluru from June 2024 to December 2024. Over a 7-month period, 102 patients diagnosed with AF were analysed. Results: Most patients diagnosed with AF were elderly (above 60 years old)- numbering to 82 patients (80%). Systemic hypertension and diabetes mellitus were the most common observed risk factors occurring in 69 (67%) and 60 (58%) patients respectively. .Obesity was reported in 34 patients (33%), while smoking was identified in 27 patients (26%).Hypothyroidism was observed in 24 patients (23%). Among heart diseases, CAD was the most prevalent, affecting 42 (41%) patients. Conclusion: Identification of risk factors in patients diagnosed with AF is essential for better prognostic and therapeutic decision making. Managing risk factors contributes to reducing disease activity, thereby improving both morbidity and mortality outcomes.