Modest Weight Loss Reduces the Burden of AF

Modest weight loss can reduce the risk for recurrent atrial fibrillation (AF) and reduce the burden of AF in patients with established AF and obesity or overweight, according to results of a new study presented at the American Heart Association Scientific Sessions 2019.

Because obesity and AF have significant overlap in comorbidities, the researchers investigated whether modest weight loss can improve outcomes in patients with overweight or obesity and established AF.

To conduct their study, the researchers conducted a literature review of studies that compared modest weight loss (10% or more body weight) and low weight loss (less than 10% of body weight) or weight gain.

Recurrence of AF based on a Holter monitor, AF burden, and improvement in AF symptom severity were also assessed.

Overall, the analysis included 5 studies with 548 patients.

Results showed that, compared with low weight loss or weight gain, modest weight loss reduced the recurrence of AF and showed a larger decrease in event frequency, episode duration, global episode severity, and symptom severity.

—Amanda Balbi

Reference:

Aldaas OM, Lupercio F, Han FT, et al. Weight loss in the management of overweight and obese patients with atrial fibrillation: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Paper presented at: American Heart Association Scientific Sessions 2019; November 16-18, 2019; Philadelphia, PA. https://www.abstractsonline.com/pp8/#!/7891/presentation/32356. Accessed November 12, 2019.