Almost one in four (24 per cent) Queenslanders aged 50 and above living with the most common, sustained heart rhythm disorder – atrial fibrillation (AF) and wait until experiencing four or more symptoms before seeking medical advice, new research reveals.
More than half a million Australians have AF5 (>102,000 Queenslanders) – a lifelong, progressive disease where faulty electrical signals of the heart cause the top chambers of the heart known as the atria, to beat faster, erratically and out of rhythm with the heart’s lower two chambers, the ventricles.
Other AF symptoms include chest tightness, fatigue, shortness of breath and dizziness, noting 30 per cent to 40 per cent of those affected may show no symptoms at all.
According to Cardiologist and Electrophysiologist, Queensland Cardiovascular Group, Dr Tomos Walters, Brisbane, the burden and prevalence of this serious, life-compromising disease is often underestimated because many (30 per cent – 40 per cent) may not display visible symptoms, which makes diagnosis challenging.
“While many Queensland adults claim to understand various factors affecting their heart health, concerningly, the new research reveals 24 per cent wait until experiencing four or more AF symptoms before seeking medical advice.
“The underestimation of disease prevalence, combined with low community awareness, and 30 per cent to 40 per cent of patients showing no obvious AF symptoms, is creating the “perfect storm” for one of the largest, and most pressing public health epidemics,” Dr Walters said. “Furthermore, AF cases in those aged 55 and above are projected to double over the next two decades, driven by our ageing population and rising rates of excess weight and obesity.
“People living with AF face a threefold increased risk of heart failure, nearly five times the likelihood of having a stroke, and double the risk of developing dementia,” Dr Walters said. “Early diagnosis and intervention is therefore crucial for effective management,16 and reducing the risk of these potentially life-threatening complica ations.”
The new research reveals more than one in three (35 per cent) Queenslanders living with AF report a ‘moderate to severe’ decline in their quality of life and ability to perform daily activities.
Moreover, only 37 per cent of Queenslanders feel motivated to pursue a more proactive approach to their heart health, even after learning about the heightened risk of stroke, underscoring the urgent need for greater community education and awareness of AF..
“More than three-quarters (77 per cent) of Australians living with AF, or its symptoms, report feeling ‘anxious’ or ‘worried’, with 13 per cent experiencing ‘severe’ anxiety due to the chronic disease,” Cardiologist and Cardiac Electrophysiologist at Gold Coast’s Pindara Private Hospital, Dr Ben Hunt said.
“Studies show depression or anxiety can worsen AF symptoms, reduce quality of life, and increase the likelihood of AF recurrence.
“Mental and emotional stress can affect the heart, with studies suggesting anxiety may trigger heart arrhythmias (irregular heartbeat) like AF.
“This highlights the need for improved disease awareness and a more proactive approach to detection and diagnosis,” Dr Hunt said.
“While physical inactivity is also a known risk factor for AF, the new research reveals nearly 72 per cent of those living with the disease report it affects their ability to stay active, which may make the problem worse.
“It is crucial for all Australians aged 50 and a above to stay active. Regular physical activity may significantly reduce the burden of AF, lower the risk of heart disease, and better manage other health problems,” said Dr Hunt.
“Doing some form of exercise every day can significantly improve your health outcomes.” Despite many Australians regularly monitoring their heart health– through blood pressure checks (58 per cent), electrocardiograms (41 per cent), and heart auscultations listening for an abnormal heart beat] (34 per cent) – one in three (31 per cent) still feel unsure about recognising heart-related symptoms and when to seek medical advice.
CEO and Founder of the national heart disease advocacy group, hearts4heart, Tanya Hall, Perth, said her personal experience with AF inspired her to create an organisation dedicated to raising awareness of the disease, and ensuring patients are educated about available treatments. “Living with AF took a significant toll on my life. It affected by ability to work, socialise, and my mental health,” she said.
“With timely diagnosis, supportive networks, and the right treatment however, I’ve been able to live well with AF, and lead a fulfilling life,” Tanya said.
“However, awareness of AF remains alarmingly low among the general population, including the elderly, despite one in 10 (9 per cent) of those aged 80 and above living with the disease.
“When most people think of heart disease, they think of a ‘heart attack’, but many are unaware of other heart conditions,” said Tanya.
“This reinforces the urgent need for increased awareness, better patient education, and a proactive approach to heart health.”
Government infrastructure executive, father-to-two and sportsman, Graeme, 55, Brisbane was alerted to symptoms of AF via his smartwatch in December 2023. He promptly visited an emergency hospital where he was diagnosed with AF.
“Within hours of experiencing symptoms, I was diagnosed and prescribed medication. Within four days, everything had settled down — it was a swift and effective response.
“I was quite alarmed and anxious about the potential implications for my overall health and wellbeing, particularly as this happened on day two of our holiday,” Graeme said.
Graeme initially controlled his condition with medication, but over time, it became clear surgery was unavoidable. He experienced some post-surgery complications, but prompt treatment helped him recover.
“In February 2025, I underwent a six-hour open-heart operation to repair and strengthen my mitral valve, close a hole in the wall between my atria, and perform an ablation to treat the AF,” said Graeme.
Graeme has some important advice for Australians living with symptoms of AF.
“I’ve learned the importance of following medical advice and staying disciplined about making healthy choices and lifestyle changes of relevance to my condition.
“If you’re experiencing AF symptoms but do not yet have a diagnosis, seek medical advice today,” Graeme said.
To learn more about the symptoms, management and treatment of AF, visit your doctor, or head to: www.beatafib.com.au.
