It's no lie, A-Fib can be prevented or controlled
Updated estimates out of the University of California San Francisco tell us that around 10 million Americans contend with A-Fib (aka atrial fibrillation). Two decades ago, it was estimated to affect about 3 million folks. And for 63% of those who are told they have the condition, it comes as a complete surprise, according to the American Heart Association.
A-Fib is an irregular heartbeat that increases your risk of shortness of breath, light-headedness, blood clots, stroke and even heart failure. But it is largely preventable and the most recent guidelines for preventing and managing the condition now acknowledge just how much power you have over A-Fib's impact on your life.
Maintaining a healthy weight, getting doctor-approved exercise, stopping smoking, moderating alcohol intake, and controlling high blood pressure and Type 2 diabetes are all effective ways to prevent and manage A-Fib. You also may prevent it from developing by getting treatment for sleep apnea.
There are also very effective medical and surgical interventions, including medications like beta-blockers that control heartbeat, or cardiac ablation, a minimally invasive procedure that stops the heart's fluttering. But sticking with healthy lifestyle choices is essential, even if you get effective medical intervention.
What more info and support? Check out my book, "This Is Your Do-Over: The 7 Secrets to Losing Weight, Living Longer, and Getting a Second Chance at the Life You Want" and keep an eye out for the February 2027 release of my next book, "YOU: Getting Older: The Owner's Manual for Your Golden Years."
Health pioneer Michael Roizen, M.D., is chief wellness officer emeritus at the Cleveland Clinic and author of four No. 1 New York Times bestsellers. Check out his latest, "The Great Age Reboot: Cracking the Longevity Code for a Younger Tomorrow," and find out more at www.4YOUngevity.com. Email your health and wellness questions to Dr. Mike at questions@4YOUngevity.com.
(c)2026 Michael Roizen, M.D.
Distributed by King Features Syndicate, Inc.
(c) 2026 Michael Roizen, M.D. Distributed by King Features Syndicate, Inc.
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