Moderate-intensity exercise improves cardiovascular outcomes. However, mounting clinical evidence demonstrates that long-term, high-intensity endurance training predisposes male and veteran athletes to an increased risk of atrial fibrillation (AF), a risk that is not observed across both genders. Although increased mortality associated with AF in the general population is not shared by athletes, clinically significant morbidities exist (eg, reduced exercise capacity, athletic performance, and quality of life). Additional research is needed to fill current gaps in knowledge pertaining to the natural history, pathophysiologic mechanisms, and management strategies of AF in the athlete.
Keywords: Athlete; Atrial fibrillation; Cardiac arrhythmia; Chronic exercise; Endurance sports.
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