Higher Risk of Stroke and Death for Women with Atrial Fibrillation

Posted on September 30th, 2009 by Mellanie

We know that more men than women have atrial fibrillation, but that women have a higher rate of strokes and death. In fact, women account for about 61% of stroke deaths.

Recent research at Rush University Medical Center identified nine specific gender differences between women and men who have atrial fibrillation. Those included that women have a higher incidence of stroke and death, higher risk of life-threatening arrhythmias due to hormones, sensitivity to statin drugs and others, and failure to receive blood thinners (Coumadin®, warfarin) and afib treatments such as ablation. Each difference has implications for the management and treatment of women with atrial fibrillation. Read more at:

Women with Atrial Fibrillation Have a Higher Risk of Stroke and Death

Tags: Risk, Stroke, Treatment, Women //