Prevalence of Stroke and Associated Risk Factors in Patients With Atrial Fibrillation: A Cross-Sectional Study

Introduction Atrial fibrillation (AF) is a common type of heart rhythm disorder that considerably elevates the risk of stroke. Identifying risk factors and their association with stroke in AF patients is essential for effective prevention strategies. Methodology This cross-sectional study was conducted at the Cardiology Department of Khyber Teaching Hospital, Peshawar, Pakistan, from October 2024 to March 2025. A total of 345 patients with diagnosed AF were enrolled using a non-probability purposive sampling technique. The CHA₂DS₂-VASc (Congestive heart failure, Hypertension, Age ≥75 years, Diabetes Mellitus, Prior Stroke or transient ischemic attack (TIA) or thromboembolism, Vasculardisease, Age 65-74 years, Sex category) score was used to assess stroke risk, and associations with various risk factors were analyzed using the Chi-square test. Results Stroke or transient ischemic attack (TIA) was reported in 13% of patients. Significant associations were found between stroke risk and smoking, obesity, chronic kidney disease, thyroid disease, and physical inactivity. No significant correlation was found with alcohol consumption, likely due to cultural and religious practices. Conclusion This study highlights a notable stroke prevalence among AF patients and underscores the importance of managing modifiable risk factors to reduce stroke risk.