Nigeria Atrial Fibrillation Registry

Atrial fibrillation is the most common sustained cardiac arrhythmia (rhythm abnormality) encountered in clinical practice. It contributes significantly to the risk of cardiac symptoms, hospital admissions, cardiovascular related morbidity and mortality and increased healthcare cost.

AF has significant impact on healthcare cost. The major drivers of the cost are hospitalisations, stroke and loss of productivity. Globally AF accounts for less than 1% of all deaths. However, because it co-exists with other conditions, it contributes to worse prognosis compared to persons who do not have AF. New onset AF in HF patients may be associated with particularly poor prognosis.

Most of the published data and current knowledge on AF epidemiology are based on studies in Europe and North America. The information obtainable from previous studies in sub-Saharan Africa is limited. Many of the studies were retrospective. There is also paucity of information on burden of AF (both in hospital and community), clinical profile and outcome of AF in Nigeria in particular and Africa in general.

The primary objective of this study is to determine the clinical characteristics, outcome as well as cost genetic features of AF in Nigeria.

The project will provide information on: i. Hospital and community burden of AF in Nigeria; ii. Clinical features, mode of presentation and risk factors for AF; iii. Provide data on AF related outcomes as well as prognostic factors.