A strong link between dementia and an irregular heartbeat

(Farid Farid/ 7 News) — An Australian cardiologist has found a strong link between dementia and an irregular heartbeat.

There is strong evidence of a connection between atrial fibrillation (AF) and the deterioration of cognitive function leading to dementia, says the Heart Research Institute’s Ben Freedman.

“People with AF are at increased risk of dementia and the link is independent of stroke and other risk factors,” Professor Freedman said.

“Earlier diagnosis of AF could be considered a strategy to prevent or delay dementia and stroke.” (…)