How Innovation and Technology Can Improve Atrial Fibrillation Patient Care
Summary
- Persistent atrial fibrillation affects millions of people and can lead to serious health issues like stroke and heart failure.
- The Miller School of Medicine’s Dr. Litsa Lambrakos joined leaders in cardiac electrophysiology to rethink how to care for people with persistent atrial fibrillation, focusing on new ideas and the use of digital technology to make a difference for patients.
- Dr. Lambrakos and colleagues suggested a plan that involves education, healthy lifestyle changes, stroke prevention, early treatment and digital health tools.
Persistent atrial fibrillation is a heart rhythm problem that affects millions of people and is expected to become even more common in the coming years. It can lead to serious health issues like stroke and heart failure and often makes life more difficult for those who have it.
Recently, Litsa Lambrakos, M.D., an associate professor in the Division of Cardiovascular Medicine at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, joined leaders in cardiac electrophysiology as part of the Heart Rhythm Society to rethink how to care for people with persistent atrial fibrillation, focusing on new ideas and the use of digital technology to make a difference for patients.
“I was selected as part of a small group of emerging leaders in the field of cardiac electrophysiology to really tease apart some of the contemporary issues in the diagnosis, management and treatment of persistent atrial fibrillation,” she said.
Their work was published in the society’s journal, HeartRhythm.
About Persistent Atrial Fibrillation
Atrial fibrillation is the most common type of irregular heartbeat. It’s projected to affect 16 million Americans by 2050. Persistent atrial fibrillation means the irregular rhythm lasts more than a week and usually requires medical treatment.
People with persistent atrial fibrillation face higher risks than those with occasional (paroxysmal) atrial fibrillation, including more strokes and heart problems. Early treatment is crucial to deter the condition from getting worse.
How can we Improve Atrial Fibriallation Care?
Dr. Lambrakos and colleagues suggest a five-part plan to help patients:
• Education and support: Patients need clear, easy-to-understand information about atrial fibrillation and its symptoms and treatment options. Support groups and digital tools can help people feel less alone and more confident in managing their health.
• Healthy lifestyle changes: Making changes like losing weight, exercising, quitting smoking and treating sleep problems can help control atrial fibrillation and sometimes even reverse it. Studies show that people who lose weight and stay active have fewer atrial fibrillation episodes and better overall health.
• Preventing stroke: Blood thinners are often needed to lower the risk of stroke. Doctors may also consider other procedures for patients who can’t take these medications.
• Early treatment: Starting treatment early, whether with medicines or procedures like ablation, can help keep the heart’s rhythm normal and prevent complications. The sooner treatment starts, the better the chances for success.
• Digital health tools: Devices like smartwatches and mobile apps can help detect atrial fibrillation early, monitor symptoms and keep patients connected with their care teams. These tools make it easier for people to track their health and get help when needed.
Why Is Technology Important?
Dr. Lambrakos said the researchers recognized that digital health tools are changing the way doctors and patients manage atrial fibrillation and advocate for their responsible use on behalf of patients.
Wearable devices can spot irregular heartbeats before symptoms appear, allowing for faster treatment. Apps and online resources help patients learn about their condition and make informed decisions. These technologies also make it easier for people in remote or underserved areas to get the care they need.
The experts highlighted the importance of “techquity”—making sure everyone has access to digital health tools, no matter their background or income. This can help close gaps in care and ensure that all patients benefit from new advances. For example, mobile health can help people stick to their medications and make healthy lifestyle changes, especially in communities that may have fewer resources.
Collaborating for Better Patient Outcomes
Improving care for persistent atrial fibrillation requires teamwork, according to the study. Doctors, nurses, pharmacists, dietitians and patient advocates all play a role. Insurance companies, technology developers and government agencies also need to work together to make sure patients get the best possible care.
“Early recognition of the signs and symptoms of atrial fibrillation is critical to early diagnosis and treatment. Both patient and provider education and access to timely, specialized care are essential in achieving the goals for treatment of persistent atrial fibrillation,” said Dr. Lambrakos. “Furthermore, ensuring patients, physicians and all members of the health care team are aware and treat early forms of atrial fibrillation may also affect its progression toward persistent AF.”
For people living with persistent atrial fibrillation, these innovative approaches offer hope for better health and quality of life. Early detection, personalized treatment and support from digital tools can help patients take control of their condition.
Tags: AFib, atrial fibrillation, Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Dr. Litsa Lambrakos, Heart Rhythm journal, Heart Rhythm Society, Newsroom, Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, technology, USNWR Cardiovascular