Atrial Fibrillation (AFib) and Dementia: Research Insights That Matter

Atrial fibrillation (AFib) isn’t just about irregular heartbeats—it also has important implications for brain health. In this episode of The Pulse Report, Dr. Shen, a cardiologist specializing in electrophysiology and the Director of Research and Education at Cardiovascular Medicine (CVM), breaks down findings from a major international study published in Circulation.

For people living with AFib, stroke prevention is usually the top concern. But this global collaboration shows that AFib’s impact goes further—silently affecting memory, thinking, and long-term brain health, even in people who have never had a traditional stroke.

You’ll learn:

• Why AFib increases the risk of dementia and memory decline—even without a major stroke.
• How “silent” brain injuries, disrupted blood flow, and chronic inflammation link AFib to cognitive decline.
• Why these effects can accumulate gradually, “chipping away” at brain health over years.
• The role of treatments like blood thinners, rhythm control, and ablation in protecting not just the heart, but also the brain.
• How lifestyle factors — from blood pressure and diabetes control to sleep and exercise — strengthen both heart rhythm and memory.
• Why early detection of AFib and early recognition of subtle cognitive changes are essential for long-term health.

This Research Spotlight takes you inside one of the most important global reviews of AFib and dementia to date. It highlights what patients, families, and doctors should know about the heart–brain connection—and what steps can be taken now to protect both.

This is more than a heart health issue—it’s a reminder that protecting your rhythm also means protecting your memory and quality of life.

If you or a loved one are living with AFib, this episode offers clarity, confidence, and actionable insights to help you stay strong—in both heart and mind.

Read more: Rivard L, de Bruijn S, & Freedman B, et al. (2022). Atrial Fibrillation and Dementia: A Report From the AF-SCREEN International Collaboration. Circulation, 145(5), 392–409. https://doi.org/10.1161/CIRCULATIONAHA.121.055018

Let's keep your heart — and your life — going strong and in rhythm.