Racial and ethnic differences exist in atrial fibrillation management and outcomes, compounded by the underrepresentation of minority populations in clinical trials for stroke prevention.
This review emphasizes the critical need to address racial and ethnic disparities in atrial fibrillation management and clinical trial enrollment to improve patient outcomes.
Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common clinical arrhythmia, and it results in adverse outcomes and increased healthcare costs. Racial and ethnic differences in AF management, although recognized, are poorly understood. This review summarizes racial differences in AF epidemiology, genetics, clinical presentation, and management. In addition, it highlights the underrepresentation of racial and ethnic populations in AF clinical trials, especially trials focused on stroke prevention. Specific strategies are proposed for future research and initiatives that have potential to eliminate racial and ethnic differences in the care of patients with AF. Addressing racial and ethnic disparities in healthcare access, enrollment in clinical trials, resource allocation, prevention, and management will likely narrow the gaps in the care and outcomes of racial and ethnic minorities suffering from AF.
Tamirisa et al. (Mon,) conducted a review in Atrial fibrillation. Racial and ethnic differences exist in atrial fibrillation management and outcomes, compounded by the underrepresentation of minority populations in clinical trials for stroke prevention.