Atrial fibrillation risk and management

In July 2026, the German Heart Foundation warned that atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common sustained heart‑rhythm disorder and a major contributor to stroke, noting that 20‑30 % of strokes are linked to undiagnosed AF. It urged regular pulse checks for people over 65 or with hypertension, and recommended ECG or long‑term monitoring when irregularities appear. Treatment options described included rhythm‑restoring drugs, anticoagulants, catheter ablation and surgical isolation of pulmonary veins.

A week later, a Norwegian cohort study of more than 87,000 adults followed for 15 years showed that regular physical activity further reduces the risks associated with AF. Compared with inactive participants, those with low, moderate or high activity levels experienced 9‑19 % lower stroke risk and 11‑22 % lower all‑cause mortality, with active AF patients living up to 1.2 years longer on average. The findings reinforce existing advice for at least 150 minutes of moderate‑intensity exercise per week, highlighting lifestyle measures as a complement to medical management of AF.