The Lead Episode 96: A Discussion of Racial Differences and Similarities in Atrial Fibrillation Epidemiology, Risk Factors in UK Biobank and Korean NHIS-HEALS Cohort Studies

Discussion Topic: Racial Differences and Similarities in Atrial Fibrillation Epidemiology, Risk Factors in UK Biobank and Korean NHIS-HEALS Cohort Studies

Melissa E. Middeldorp, MPH, PhD, University Medical Centre, Groningen & University of Adelaide, is joined by So-Ryoung Lee, MD, PhD, Seoul National University Hospital, and Adrian D. Elliott, PhD, University of Adelaide/Royal, Adelaide Hospital, to discuss a study that compares atrial fibrillation (AF) epidemiology and risk factors between the UK Biobank (a predominantly European cohort) and the Korean NHIS-HEALS cohort to explore racial differences in AF incidence. Findings revealed that AF was more prevalent in the UK cohort than in the Korean cohort, with BMI and smoking showing stronger associations with AF risk in the UK population. Despite these differences, several risk factors, including hypertension and diabetes, were common predictors in both populations. The study highlights the complex interplay of lifestyle and healthcare system factors along with analysis of different large cohort studies in AF development and underscores the need for population-specific risk assessment and prevention strategies.

Host: Melissa E. Middeldorp, MPH, PhD
Guests: So-Ryoung Lee, MD, PhD, and Adrian D. Elliott, PhD

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