Assessment of Atrial Fibrillation Risk and Public Awareness in the UAE: A Population-Based Study

Abstract

Background: Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common arrhythmia worldwide. Data on public knowledge of AF as well as the risk of developing AF in the Gulf region remain limited. This study aimed to assess AF knowledge and the risk of AF development in the general population of the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional study using an online questionnaire. AF knowledge was assessed using the AF Knowledge Assessment Tool (AFKAT), and the risk of AF development in participating individuals was assessed using the HARMS2-AF risk score. Normality was assessed using the Kolmogorov–Smirnov test. Internal consistency was measured using Cronbach’s alpha. Mann-Whitney, Kruskal-Wallis, and Spearman tests were used for bivariate analyses and correlations.

Results: A total of 510 participants were surveyed. The main sources of AF knowledge were media (21.8%), self-learning (17.6%), and physicians (13.3%). The median AFKAT score was 8/21 (IQR 0–13; 38% correct), with participants demonstrating the highest level of knowledge in the 'Risk Factors' domain of AF. Most participants (70.4%) were classified as having poor knowledge (AFKAT scores <60%). Female sex, age ≥50 years, postgraduate education, and a healthcare background were associated with higher levels of knowledge. Among participants, 56% were classified as having a low risk of developing AF and 12.5% as medium-risk.

Conclusions: The study found generally low levels of AF knowledge among the UAE population, with most participants being at low risk for developing the condition. Enhancing public awareness is essential for improving prevention and early recognition.