The study authors noted that previous studies suggest that omega-3 fatty acids may accentuate vagal tone. Enhanced vagal tone has been shown to protect against ventricular fibrillation and sudden cardiac death, but may promote atrial fibrillation in select individuals. Dr. Aizer said the current study's findings may be influenced by the relatively young, healthy population of physicians where vagal tone may have a more significant impact.
"The message of this study is not to stop eating fish. AF is a complex condition that requires the interaction of a number of risk factors to develop. Fish may have different effects on different people. Lifestyle and dietary habits need to be tailored on an individual basis to promote overall health. Clearly, more investigation is needed to reach a more definitive answer about the multiple effects of omega-3 fatty acid on the heart's electrical function," Dr. Aizer concluded.
Session details:
RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN FISH CONSUMPTION AND THE DEVELOPMENT OF ATRIAL FIBRILLATION IN MEN
[May 18, 2006, 8:00-9:30 a.m., Session # AB03, Room 256]
HEART RHYTHM 2006 takes place May 17-20 at the Boston Convention and Exhibition Center in Boston. The meeting is the most comprehensive educational event on heart rhythm disorders, offering over 400 educational opportunities in multiple formats and over 125 innovative products and services for the heart rhythm management field. The world's most renowned scientists and physicians will present a wide range of heart rhythm topics including advances in statins, cardiac resynchronization therapy, catheter ablation, cardiac pacing and heart failure and the latest technology, including state-of-the-art pacemakers and defibrillators.
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Contact: Rachael Lille Moore
rmoore@HRSonline.org
202-464-3476
GYMR
18-May-2006