Prevalence and risk factors for atrial fibrillation and its anticoagulant requirement in adults aged ≥40 in Jimma Town, Southwest Ethiopia: A community based cross-sectional study

BACKGROUND: There is no information on the prevalence and incidence of atrial fibrillation in Ethiopia. We aimed to investigate the prevalence, risk factors and anticoagulant requirements of atrial fibrillation in an elderly Jimma population. METHODS: In a community-based cross-sectional study in 634 adult (≥40 years) Jimma population, we performed cardiovascular health examinations including a 12-lead electrocardiogram to estimate AF prevalence. A standardized questionnaire was used to collect information on medical history, lifestyle and use of medications. Stroke risk stratification was done using CHA(2)DS(2)-VASc score. We used logistic regressions to determine the potential risk factors of AF. RESULTS: The overall prevalence of AF was 4.3%. AF was associated with sex, current smoking, hypertension and BMI. Nineteen out of twenty seven participants with AF were in need of anticoagulation to prevent risk of stroke. CONCLUSION: The prevalence of AF is high and common risk factors were sex, current smoking, hypertension, and higher BMI in this cohort. More than two-third of study participants with AF were at higher need of oral anticoagulants.