TITLE:
Atrial Fibrillation in Heart Failure Patients in the Cardiology Department of Ignace Deen University Hospital: Epidemiological, Clinical and Therapeutic Aspects
AUTHORS:
Elhaj Yaya Baldé, Mamadou Bassirou Bah, Ibrahima Sory Barry, Mamadou Madiou Diallo, Amadou Diouldé Doumbouya, Alpha Koné, Ibrahima Sory Sylla, Bah Aliou, Mamadou Dian Bah, Souleymane Diakité, Mamadou Dadhi Baldé
KEYWORDS:
Atrial Fibrillation, Heart Failure, Cardiology, Ignace Deen
JOURNAL NAME:
Open Journal of Epidemiology,
Vol.15 No.2,
May
6,
2025
ABSTRACT: Introduction: Atrial fibrillation (AF) and heart failure (HF) are increasingly common cardiovascular diseases. They often occur together or lead to mutual complications. Patients with both conditions are at particular risk of cardiovascular complications, including all-cause death, cardiovascular death, stroke and worsening heart failure. Patients and Methods: A prospective, cross-sectional, descriptive study conducted over six months, from 1 April 2024 to 30 September 2024. All patients hospitalised in the department for heart failure and atrial fibrillation were eligible for the study. Sociodemographic, clinical, paraclinical and therapeutic data were collected. Results: Of the 372 patients included, 26.34% had AF, often associated with rheumatic valve disease. The mean age was 56.47 years, with females predominating. Therapeutic strategies focused on controlling heart rate, with extensive use of beta-blockers. Direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) were the treatment of choice for thromboembolic prevention, despite access constraints. Conclusion: The high prevalence of AF in a relatively young population with little education highlights the need for prevention and early detection programmes targeting at-risk populations.