Atrial fibrillation fact sheet in Korea 2024 (part 3): treatment for atrial fibrillation in Korea: medicines and ablation
10.1186/s42444-024-00122-9
- Author:
Yun Gi KIM
1
;
Kwang‑No LEE
;
Yong‑Soo BAEK
;
Bong‑Seong KIM
;
Kyung‑Do HAN
;
Hyoung‑Seob PARK
;
Jinhee AHN
;
Jin‑Kyu PARK
;
Jaemin SHIM
Author Information
1. Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, Korea University College of Medicine and Korea University Anam Hospital, Seoul, Republic of Korea.
- Publication Type:RESEARCH
- From:International Journal of Arrhythmia
2024;25(3):15-
- CountryRepublic of Korea
- Language:English
-
Abstract:
Background:Atrial fibrillation (AF) is a prevalent cardiac arrhythmia associated with significant morbidity and mortality, posing a considerable burden on healthcare systems. In Republic of Korea, the prevalence and incidence of AF have increased in recent years. There have also been significant changes in the trends of antiarrhythmic drug (AAD) use and procedural treatments for AF.
Objectives:This study aims to review the trends in AF treatment strategies in Republic of Korea, particularly focusing on the utilization of antiarrhythmic drugs and catheter ablation.
Methods:The Korean National Health Insurance Service (K-NHIS) data were used to identify AF patients from 2013 to 2022. AAD usage and catheter ablation procedures were analyzed annually. AADs were classified into Class IC and III drugs. Trends in beta-blockers, calcium channel blockers, and digoxin prescriptions were also examined. The primary endpoint was the trend of AAD use and AF catheter ablation (AFCA) over 10 years.
Results:In 2022, 940,063 patients had a prior diagnosis of AF. From 2013 to 2022, the use of AADs increased from 12.1 to 16.4% among prevalent AF patients. Beta-blockers were the most commonly prescribed rate control medication, while the use of calcium channel blockers and digoxin declined. The frequency of AFCA procedures also increased, from 0.5% of prevalent AF patients in 2013 to 0.7% in 2022. Younger patients, males, and those with lower CHA2DS2-VASc scores were more likely to receive AFCA. Regional variations in treatment patterns were observed, with Seoul exhibiting higher rates of procedural treatments and AAD prescriptions.
Conclusions:Over the past decade, there has been a significant increase in the use of AADs and AFCA procedures in Republic of Korea. These trends reflect recent advancements in AF management advocating a refined rhythm control strategy.
