Prevalence of atrial fibrillation in acute ischemic stroke

Objective: To determine prevalence of Atrial fibrillation (AF), in Acute Ischemic stroke (AIS) casesto reduce the risk of Cerebrovascular accidents (CVAs).Methodology: This cross-sectional study spanning 24 weeks' (18-08-2019 to 18-02-2020) was done in Neurology ward of Shifa International hospital, Islamabad. Sample size was 100 AIS cases were selected of age 18 - 75 years, irrespective of gender. ECG and Holter monitoring were done in all cases. Data were analysed using MS Excel and SPSS 20.Results: Out of 100 patients, 69 (69.0%) were males and with mean age of 58.2 & PLUSMN; 10.1 years and 31 (31.0%) were females with mean age of 56.8 & PLUSMN; 11.9 years. AF was noted in 23 (23.0%) of total study population. Among those with AF, 56.52% were diagnosed on 12 lead ECG monitoring, 30.43% were previously known patients for AF and 13.04% patient needed 48 hours Holter monitoring for diagnosis. No statistically significant (p<0.05) association was noted for any of the effect modifier.Conclusion: AF prevalence was 23% of AIS cases, however there was statistically no significant relationship with any of the risk factors. There is prime need of early diagnosis and treatment of AF in AIS to decrease hospital stay and disability.