The passive smoke, or involuntary exposure to cigarette smoke, has long been associated with a number of serious health problems. Among these, one of the last to be highlighted is the link with atrial fibrillation, a common form of cardiac arrhythmia that increases the risk of other cardiovascular disorders. A recent study presented at the scientific congress of the European Society of Cardiology underlined this correlation, highlighting how the time spent exposed to passive smoking is directly proportional to the risk of developing this arrhythmia.
Atrial Fibrillation: A Silent Enemy
Atrial fibrillation affects approximately 1-2% of the population in Western countries. This heart disorder brings with it a number of unpleasant symptoms, including palpitations, difficulty breathing, excessive tiredness and a feeling of imminent fainting. However, the real danger lies in its correlation with stroke: people suffering from atrial fibrillation have a five times higher risk of suffering a stroke in their lifetime.
The Role of Passive Smoking: Results of a Large-Scale Study
A study conducted by a team of scientists from Seoul University Hospital analyzed the association between exposure to passive smoking and the risk of atrial fibrillation on a sample of almost 400,500 non-smoking adults, aged between 40 and 69. The data, from the UK health database UK Biobank, revealed that 21% of participants had been exposed to second-hand smoke in the previous year, for an average of 2.2 hours per week.
During the study’s 12.5 years of follow-up, 6% of participants developed atrial fibrillation. After excluding the influence of other risk factors, such as age, gender, body mass index and health conditions, it emerged that the group exposed to passive smoking had a 6% higher risk of developing this form of arrhythmia.
A Risk Proportional to Exposure
Furthermore, the risk appears to increase in proportion to the time spent exposed to secondhand smoke. For example, those who were exposed for 7.8 hours per week had an 11% higher risk of developing atrial fibrillation.
Passive Smoking and Atrial Fibrillation: Implications and Conclusions
This study highlights the importance of limiting exposure to secondhand smoke, both in private homes and in workplaces or crowded open spaces. Laws that extend the smoking ban, both indoors and outdoors, play a fundamental role in protecting the cardiovascular health of the population.
FAQ – Passive Smoking and Atrial Fibrillation
What is atrial fibrillation?
Atrial fibrillation is a heart rhythm disorder characterized by irregular beats in the upper chambers of the heart (atria).
What is the risk associated with atrial fibrillation?
People with atrial fibrillation have a significantly higher risk of suffering a stroke later in life.
How was the study on the association between passive smoking and atrial fibrillation conducted?
The study involved nearly 400,500 non-smoking adults and analyzed data from the UK Biobank database.
What is the effect of passive smoking on the risk of developing atrial fibrillation?
Exposure to secondhand smoke is associated with an increased risk of developing atrial fibrillation, with the risk increasing proportionally to the time of exposure.
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