CHEST Guidelines-Globalization-of-the-Epidemiologic,-Clinical,-and-

Globalization-of-the-Epidemiologic,-Clinical,-and-

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This document comprises a systematic review of the global epidemiology of atrial fibrillation (AF), specifically focusing on regions outside North America and Europe. The review, discussed in CHEST journal, aims to bridge the knowledge gap left by earlier studies which predominantly addressed white populations in developed countries. Of the 692 articles screened, 38 were included for the review, highlighting a breadth of data particularly from Japan and China, along with other Asian and Southern Hemisphere countries. Notably, African and Middle Eastern studies were minimally included, likely due to limited resources for large-scale research.<br /><br />Key findings of the review affirm the age-related increase in AF prevalence and identify common risk factors such as hypertension, diabetes, and valvular heart disease. The study underscores significant variability in the AF incidence data from different regions and reveals disparities in the uptake of antithrombotic treatments, with countries like China displaying minimal warfarin use compared to Japan. This variance emphasizes the need for context-specific healthcare strategies.<br /><br />The article calls attention to the crucial need for enhanced epidemiological understanding of AF globally, particularly in developing regions undergoing rapid demographic and epidemiological transitions, marked by shifts from infectious to degenerative diseases. The authors stress the importance of adapting healthcare provisions to manage AF, a condition associated with severe health implications like stroke and increased hospitalizations. Furthermore, they emphasize preventive measures through better risk factor management and suggest the potential of novel anticoagulants that don't require rigorous monitoring, thus offering broader preventive options in resource-limited settings.<br /><br />Ultimately, the article advocates for international efforts to fill existing research gaps, implement screening programs, and improve care delivery for AF, particularly in low-income to middle-income countries, to address its growing global burden.

Keywords

atrial fibrillation

global epidemiology

CHEST journal

risk factors

antithrombotic treatments

healthcare strategies

epidemiological transitions

novel anticoagulants

screening programs

low-income countries