Testing for Atrial Fibrillation
Atrial fibrillation is a heart condition that affects approximately 500,000 people in the UK and comprises three main types: paroxysmal atrial fibrillation, persistent atrial fibrillation and longstanding persistent atrial fibrillation. These types of atrial fibrillation refer to the duration of the condition, with paroxysmal atrial fibrillation showing symptoms for 48 hours before ceasing without treatment. In contrast, longstanding persistent atrial fibrillation can occur for periods in excess of a year. Atrial fibrillation causes an irregular heartbeat, the rate of which is often abnormally fast. Whilst not considered life-threatening in the vast majority of cases, atrial fibrillation occurs when the atria or upper chambers of the heart contract randomly, which often precludes the possibility of the heart muscle relaxing between contractions. As a result, atrial fibrillation will often require medication to avoid related complications and in order to lessen some of the more unpleasant symptoms such as angina, dizziness and breathing difficulties.
Genetic predisposition DNA testing for atrial fibrillation is useful in order to screen those who have a family history of the condition. Arial fibrillation is generally thought to be influenced by environmental factors such as excessive or frequent consumption of caffeine based products (which include tea and coffee), alcohol consumption, drug use, smoking and obesity. These environmental triggers account for the majority of atrial fibrillation cases; however, a genetic predisposition to atrial fibrillation has been established. Research has shown that up to 15% of people with atrial fibrillation may have a familial form of the condition, with missense mutations in the KCNQ1 gene identified as playing a key role in its development.
For support and more information about atrial fibrillation, please visit the Heart and Stroke Canada website, a non-profit patient group for Atrial Fibrillation which aims at improving the quality of life of Canadians along with their relatives and connections.
Speak To International Biosciences About DNA Testing Genetic Predisposition for Atrial Fibrillation
International Biosciences provide Genetic Predisposition testing to determine your genetic predisposition for important health conditions including cancers, cardiovascular conditions, diabetes and obesity. Knowing which genetic disorders and diseases you are at risk from will allow you to plan to reduce it by making lifestyle changes such as diet and exercise. Contact International Biosciences on 1-800-969-5186 or click here to email us.
International Biosciences does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. You should consult your doctor or health professional if you have questions regarding any medical condition, before starting any new treatment, and before stopping any treatment that has been prescribed for you. Your use of this site indicates your agreement to be bound by the Genetic Predisposition Terms & Conditions, General Terms & Conditions and Terms of Use.
