Regular Aerobic Exercise Can Substantially Decrease the Likelihood of AFib and Stroke

Engaging in basic aerobic exercises could notably diminish your vulnerability to atrial fibrillation (AFib) and stroke, according to fresh research presented at the European Society of Cardiology event occurring from August 25 to 28.

The study scrutinized data from over 15,000 individuals who had not previously experienced atrial fibrillation (AFib or AF) but underwent exercise treadmill tests between 2003 and 2012. The results revealed that increased exercise performance corresponded with lower AFib rates, with even the simplicity of a daily walk proving beneficial.

The participants were categorized into three fitness tiers based on metabolic equivalents (METs) attained during the treadmill assessment: low (below 8.57 METs), medium (8.57 to 10.72), and high (exceeding 10.72).

Over a span of five years, the probability of remaining free from atrial fibrillation was 97.1%, 98.4%, and 98.4% in the low, medium, and high fitness groups respectively.

Dr. Shih-Hsien Sung, a study author and associate professor at National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University in Taipei, Taiwan, emphasized that exercise capacity is influenced by factors like age, health conditions, and cardiovascular fitness. He recommended that promoting something as simple as daily walking could mitigate the risk of AFib, given that fitness and health conditions are modifiable risk aspects.

Sung further highlighted that their findings indicated that improved exercise capacity might additionally reduce stroke risks, extending beyond the risks associated with AFib.

Contributions to AFib and Stroke Prevention from Research Findings

The American Heart Association (AHA) estimates that over 12 million people could be affected by AFib by 2030. AFib is characterized by irregular heartbeats or arrhythmias, potentially leading to complications like blood clots, strokes, and heart failure.

Dr. Nikhil Warrier, a cardiac electrophysiologist and medical director at MemorialCare Heart & Vascular Institute in Fountain Valley, CA, underscored the significance of these findings in aligning with previous research on the connection between regular exercise and decreased AFib risk.

Dr. Ernst von Schwarz, a cardiologist and professor of medicine at UCLA and Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, noted that while these observations validate the cardiovascular benefits of exercise, they stem from observational data rather than a controlled randomized study.

Understanding the Exercise-AFib Link

Warrier explained that physical activity can lead to weight loss, improved lipid profiles, blood pressure regulation, better glucose control, and reduced instances of heart attacks and heart failure. These factors collectively contribute to reducing the risk of AFib development.

Von Schwarz suggested that the elasticity of blood vessels and improved heart conditioning due to regular physical activity might contribute to this effect. Regular exercise could make individuals more resistant to developing degenerative heart issues, including arrhythmias like atrial fibrillation.

Getting Started with an Exercise Routine for Heart Health

Warrier emphasized the importance of consulting a medical professional before beginning an exercise regimen, especially for individuals with existing cardiac conditions or complex health issues.

For those without serious health concerns, collaborating with a healthcare provider or personal fitness trainer before starting a new exercise routine is beneficial. Individualized recommendations for heart health-oriented exercise will vary, but a gradual approach of working up to 30 minutes of moderate aerobic exercise 4 to 5 days a week is a good starting point.

Inclusion of strength training is also advisable. The American Heart Association suggests at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise weekly, or 75 minutes of vigorous activity, alongside muscle-strengthening exercises on two or more days.

In conclusion, recent research underscores the potential of exercise to reduce the risk of AFib. Enhanced exercise performance correlates with lower AFib rates, and even something as straightforward as a daily walk can have a positive impact. Additionally, exercise may extend its benefits to lowering stroke risks, beyond the scope of AFib-related risks.

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Disclaimer: The views, suggestions, and opinions expressed here are the sole responsibility of the experts. No Chronicle Scope journalist was involved in the writing and production of this article.