A new study from the University of California, San Francisco has brought to light a startling increase in the prevalence of atrial fibrillation (AFib), a potentially dangerous heart rhythm disorder. The research estimates that at least 10.55 million adults in the U.S. — about 5% of the population — are living with AFib, a figure that far exceeds the previously cited 3.3 million cases, highlighting the widespread underdiagnosis of this condition.

Dr. Jean Jacques Noubiap, the study’s lead author, noted that the findings reflect what healthcare professionals are increasingly observing in practice: more patients presenting with atrial fibrillation than earlier projections accounted for. He emphasized that prior estimates severely underestimated the true prevalence of AFib in U.S. adults.

One of the most surprising aspects of the study is the shifting demographics of those affected. Traditionally seen as a condition primarily afflicting older adults, AFib is now being diagnosed in younger individuals, many of whom also suffer from high blood pressure and diabetes. This change signals that AFib is no longer an issue confined to the elderly but is becoming a concern for a wider range of people.

Experts are urging the public to take preventative steps to safeguard their heart health. While some risk factors, such as age and genetics, are beyond control, others can be managed through lifestyle changes. Cardiologists recommend adopting heart-healthy habits, including dietary changes, managing blood pressure, reducing alcohol and caffeine intake, and quitting smoking.

Cardiac surgeon Dr. Yuriy Dudiy called the study’s findings a wake-up call, not only for the medical community but for policymakers and the public as well. He stressed the importance of understanding individual risk factors and taking proactive measures to maintain heart health.

As AFib becomes more widespread, the need for awareness and early diagnosis becomes crucial. This study serves as a reminder of the importance of recognizing symptoms and working with healthcare providers to mitigate risk, ensuring better long-term heart health.