Source link : https://jpc.news/2024/12/06/lifestyle/article13352/
New Insights on Atrial Fibrillation Treatment: Recent Findings from AHA 2024
Recent research shared at the American Heart Association (AHA) Scientific Sessions 2024 indicates that utilizing metformin—an established medication for type 2 diabetes—alongside lifestyle modifications does not lead to a noteworthy reduction in the burden or advancement of atrial fibrillation (AFib) compared to conventional care approaches.
Understanding AFib and Its Risks
Atrial fibrillation, recognized as the most prevalent form of arrhythmia, heightens risks for severe health issues such as strokes and heart failure. According to projections by the AHA’s Heart Disease and Stroke Statistics for 2024, over 12 million individuals in the United States could be affected by AFib by 2030. This statistic underscores an immediate need for effective strategies regarding prevention and management.
Study Overview: TRIM-AF Trial Details
The TRIM-AF trial (NCT03603912) included a sample size of 149 adults diagnosed with AFib, who were randomly allocated into four distinct groups: standard care (which involved dietary guidance without personalized support), monotherapy with metformin, a lifestyle modification program focusing on diet, exercise counseling, and cardiovascular risk management; or a combination treatment involving both metformin and lifestyle adjustments.
Participants assigned to lifestyle intervention programs received continuous counseling every three months during the first year and biannual follow-ups during the second year. Although participants exhibited weight loss across all but one group by year’s end—averaging reductions such as 2.4% in those on metformin—none achieved the targeted goal of losing at least 10% body weight or improving fitness levels significantly.
Cardiac Monitoring Over Two Years
This open-label study continued monitoring participants through implanted cardiac devices over two years to measure daily AFib duration—the proportion of time patients experienced arrhythmia each day. After one year, results demonstrated gradual decreases in AFib burden across all interventions except for those exclusively using metformin; this latter group initially displayed declining trends before reaching equilibrium.
However, statistical analysis showed no significant variation among any groups regarding changes in AFib burden despite recorded weight loss patterns observed within them. Notably, more than one-third of individuals receiving metformin discontinued use due to gastrointestinal side effects.
While symptom scores related to AFib improved notably among participants engaged in lifestyle modifications—even if these did not correlate directly with reduced burdens—the study’s limitations must be considered. The limited sample size compromised statistical power while challenges brought about by COVID-19 disrupted recruitment processes leading researchers to pivot towards virtual visits and adjust their target participant count from an initial goal of 200 downwards.
Future Directions and Recommendations
Dr. Mina K. Chung MD FAHA from Cleveland Clinic expressed cautious optimism about these findings: “Currently we cannot advocate for metformin as a standalone therapy for managing AFib; however, there may be complementary benefits associated with combined interventions.” The outcomes anticipated from ongoing evaluations could shed further light on potential long-term advantages associated with comprehensive treatment strategies aimed at tackling both diabetes management aspects alongside cardiovascular health issues affecting people living with atrial fibrillation.
The full two-year evaluation is expected to conclude around fall of 2025—increasing hopes that future insights will bolster understanding about effective pathways forward concerning this common yet serious condition.
The post Transform Your Life: How Lifestyle Changes Can Alleviate AFib Symptoms Without Reducing Treatment Burdens first appeared on JPC News.
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Author : Jean-Pierre CHALLOT
Publish date : 2024-12-06 21:25:10
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