Increased Prevention and Treatment Needed for Common Heart Rhythm Condition

2/20/2026

DeTar Highlights Advanced Cardiac Care for Atrial Fibrillation in the Crossroads

The most common heart rhythm condition in the United States is affecting more people than previously thought, reinforcing the importance of early detection, prevention and access to specialized cardiac care. Atrial fibrillation, often called AFib, is a type of irregular heartbeat that can significantly increase the risk of stroke, heart failure and other serious complications if left untreated.

A 2024 study published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology estimates that at least 10.5 million adults in the U.S. are currently living with AFib, a dramatic increase from earlier estimates of 3.3 million. Experts attribute the rise to factors such as an aging population, higher rates of high blood pressure and diabetes, obesity and lifestyle habits.

What Is Atrial Fibrillation?
AFib occurs when the upper chambers of the heart beat out of sync with the lower chambers, causing the heart to beat fast and irregularly. Some people feel noticeable symptoms, while others may have AFib for years without realizing it.

Common symptoms can include:

• A racing or fluttering heartbeat
• Shortness of breath
• Fatigue or weakness
• Lightheadedness or dizziness
• Chest discomfort

Because AFib does not always cause symptoms, many people are unaware they have it until it leads to a serious event such as a stroke.

Who Is at Risk?
About one in five cases of AFib is linked to high blood pressure. Other risk factors include advancing age, diabetes, obesity, heart disease, sleep apnea, smoking and excessive alcohol use. People with AFib are four to five times more likely to have a stroke, and AFib-related strokes tend to be more severe.

The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommends that adults begin screening for AFib at age 50, even if they do not have symptoms. Those with risk factors may need to be screened earlier, and anyone experiencing symptoms should contact a healthcare provider.

Advanced Cardiac Care Close to Home
DeTar Healthcare System provides cardiac care right here in the Crossroads, offering patients access to advanced diagnostics, treatment and specialized heart rhythm care without traveling far from home. DeTar’s cardiac services include cardiac imaging, electrophysiology evaluations, minimally invasive procedures, medication management and personalized treatment plans tailored to each patient’s needs.

“Atrial fibrillation is very treatable, especially when it’s caught early,” said Dr. Jasvinder Sidhu, cardiac electrophysiologist with DeTar Medical Group. “Treatment may involve lifestyle changes, medications to control heart rhythm or reduce stroke risk and, in some cases, advanced procedures. The key is identifying AFib early and addressing the factors that contribute to it.”

Screening and Treatment Matter
AFib is most commonly detected through an electrocardiogram (EKG), a quick, non-invasive test that measures the heart’s electrical activity. Regular wellness visits and conversations with a primary care provider can help identify irregular heart rhythms before complications occur.

“Many patients are surprised to learn their fatigue or shortness of breath is actually related to a heart rhythm problem,” said Jennifer Lopez, FNP-C, electrophysiology, DeTar Medical Group. “We want people to know they shouldn’t ignore subtle symptoms. Early evaluation allows us to start treatment sooner and dramatically reduce the risk of stroke and long-term heart damage.”

“Left untreated, AFib can have devastating consequences for patients and their families,” Dr. Sidhu added. “If you are at higher risk or experiencing symptoms, screening can be life-saving.”

DeTar Healthcare System encourages members of the community to prioritize heart health, maintain regular checkups and seek evaluation if symptoms arise. To learn more about cardiac care services or to schedule an appointment with a DeTar provider, visit www.mydetardoctor.com.

Dr. Jasvinder Sidhu, cardiac electrophysiologist with DeTar Medical Group, provided AFib education to VPD Lunch and Learn attendees at DeTar’s Heart Expo on Feb. 5. Jennifer Lopez, FNP-C, dictates following a visit with a patient at DeTar Medical Group - Electrophysiology.

Sources:
Journal of the American College of Cardiology
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
National Institutes of Health – National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute
U.S. Preventive Services Task Force

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