Atrial fibrillation is the most common heart rhythm disturbance with a prevalence of approximately 1% but which increases markedly with age. It causes debilitating symptoms, heart failure, stroke and increased mortality. It is an important determinant of neuro-cognitive decline and dementia. The studies in this proposal will help define the mechanism of this rhythm disturbance and its associated symptoms. They will help design improved treatment strategies including interventional approaches.
Atrial fibrillation (AF) has reached epidemic proportions. It results in significant burden to the individual and community with palpitations, falls, strokes, and heart failure which have contributed to an exponential rise in health care usage and hospitalisation. This application will focus on the optimal management of AF with a focus not only on therapeutics but importantly on the prevention of the arrhythmia and minimising hospitalisation.