Why such a difference in atrial fibrillation treatment between men and women?
The answer is not clear, though one possible explanation may be that women are older when they agree to have invasive treatment and thus have tried and failed more antiarrhythmic medications before getting a catheter ablation. Although being male is an independent risk factor for atrial fibrillation, the researchers say age is also a risk factor for afib, and since women usually live longer than men, it works out that the actual numbers are “similar.” And when women have afib, they have more symptoms than men, a poorer quality of life, higher stroke risk and higher death rates from cardiovascular disease. To learn more, see: • Outcomes and complications of catheter ablation for atrial fibrillation in females, HeartRhythm Journal, February 2010 — Abstract is free; a subscription is required for the full article • AF ablation referral, success seem less common in women than men. Why?, Heartwire, TheHeart.org • Catheter ablation treatment for atrial fibrillation What Does This Mean For Yo
