Malnutrition Linked to Increased Risk of Atrial Fibrillation in Elderly Patients

Strategic Insights -

A comprehensive study of 324 octogenarians who underwent dual-chamber pacemaker implantation has shed light on the connection between malnutrition and the occurrence of atrial high-rate episodes (AHREs), atrial fibrillation (AF), and all-cause mortality. The research, conducted at the Dr. Siyami Ersek Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery Training and Research Hospital, found that malnutrition, as assessed by the Controlling Nutritional Status (CONUT) score, is independently associated with long-term AHREs + AF and all-cause mortality in octogenarians.

Key Takeaways:

  • Malnutrition, as assessed by the CONUT score, is independently associated with long-term AHREs + AF and all-cause mortality in octogenarians undergoing standard pacemaker follow-up.
  • The CONUT score demonstrated greater predictive accuracy than the Prognostic Nutritional Index (PNI) for assessing malnutrition status.
  • During long-term follow-up, the incidence of AHREs did not differ significantly across CONUT score categories; however, AF and the combined endpoint of AHREs + AF were significantly higher in the moderate-to-severe malnutrition group (p
  • The study highlights the importance of nutritional assessment and management in patients with dual-chamber pacemakers, particularly in the elderly population.
  • Dr. Siyami Ersek Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery Training and Research Hospital's research has significant implications for the prevention and management of atrial fibrillation and other cardiac arrhythmias in high-risk populations.
  • The study's findings support the use of the CONUT score as a predictive tool for identifying patients at risk of malnutrition and its complications.

Statistics:

  • 324 octogenarians underwent dual-chamber pacemaker implantation and received consistent long-term monitoring at a leading tertiary cardiac clinic.
  • 150 (46%) patients were classified as having moderate to severe malnutrition based on their CONUT scores.
  • The incidence of AF was significantly higher in the moderate-to-severe malnutrition group, with 24 (16%) patients experiencing AF compared to 14 (10%) in the well-nourished group.
  • The combined endpoint of AHREs + AF was significantly higher in the moderate-to-severe malnutrition group, with 38 (25%) patients experiencing AHREs + AF compared to 20 (14%) in the well-nourished group.
  • The 1-year mortality rate was significantly higher in the moderate-to-severe malnutrition group, with 22 (15%) patients dying within 1 year compared to 8 (6%) in the well-nourished group.

Sources:

  • Aging Clinical and Experimental Research, 2025;37(1):283.
  • NewsRx. Researchers at Dr. Siyami Ersek Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery Training and Research Hospital Detail Findings in Atrial Fibrillation (Impact of malnutrition on long-term atrial high-rate episodes, atrial fibrillation, and mortality in ...). World Disease Weekly. October 21, 2025; p 98.