Who are more likely to suffer from atrial fibrillation?

People with certain underlying conditions or risk factors are more likely to develop atrial fibrillation (AF). These include:

**_Age_: Higher Age

_Gender:_ Men

_Race:_ Black individuals have a slightly higher risk of AF than white individuals.

_Family history_: AF can run in families, and having a close relative (such as a parent, sibling, or child) with AF increases your risk of developing the condition.

_High Blood Pressure:_ Uncontrolled hypertension is one of the most significant risk factors for AF.

_Obesity_: Being overweight or obese increases the risk of AF.

_Diabetes: People with diabetes are more likely to develop AF.

_Heart disease:_ Various forms of heart disease, such as coronary artery disease, valvular heart disease, and heart failure increase the risk of AF.

_Sleep Apnea:_ This condition, characterized by intermittent pauses in breathing during sleep, is associated with an increased risk of AF.

_Thyroid problems:_ Thyroid conditions such as hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism can increase the heart and lead to AF.

_Alcohol abuse:_ Excessive alcohol consumption can increase the risk of AF, especially in younger individuals.

_Cigarette smoking:_ Smoking is associated with an increased risk of AF.

_Certain Medications: Some medications, such as certain antidepressants, antihistamines, and decongestants, can trigger or worsen AF.

It's important to note that having one or more of these risk factors does not guarantee that a person will develop AF. However, being aware of these factors and managing them can help reduce the risk of developing this heart rhythm disorder