National Hispanic Medical Association Atrial Fibrillation Education Project

NHMA has partnered with Pfizer to increase awareness around the prevalence of cardiovascular disease and the Hispanic community. We are working to provide education on the importance of focusing policy and programs on education and treatment of high-risk patients who have Atrial Fibrillation.

What is Atrial Fibrillation (Afib)?

According to the American Heart Association (AHA), atrial fibrillation is a quivering or irregular heartbeat (arrhythmia). The upper chambers of the heart (the atria) beat irregularly instead of beating effectively to move blood into the ventricles. Atrial fibrillation, also known as AFib, can lead to blood clots, stroke, heart failure and other heart-related complications. Click here to watch an animation of Afib and learn more information.

What Are Risk Factors for Afib?

According to Bristol-Myers Squibb Company and Pfizer Inc., there are many risk factors that may increase your chances of developing AFib. These include but are not limited to:

• Age 65 and older
• High blood pressure
• Diabetes
• Sleep apnea
• Heavy alcohol use
• Heart disease, such as congestive
• Heart failure and Coronary artery disease
• Prior heart attacks
• Smoking
• Obesity
• Overactive thyroid

Signs and Symptoms

If you are experiencing signs and symptoms of Afib, Do Not Wait. Please speak with your doctor or health care provider immediately.

Resources

For more information and resources, please visit our HispanicHealth.info webpage.

In 2020, The Bristol Myers Squibb (BMS)-Pfizer Alliance launched the No Time to Wait campaign to raise awareness on the symptoms of atrial fibrillation. As part of this campaign, basketball icon Kareem Abdul-Jabbar partnered with BMS and Pfizer to shared his experience with Afib and what lead to his diagnosis. You can access the full press release here.