The study of 42,687 patients with a atrial fibrillation (AF), one of the most common forms of abnormal heart rhythm, finds that those admitted outside of normal operating hours (9am-5pm, Monday-Friday) have a 10 per cent increased risk of dying in the next five years. The research was adjusted to account for external factors which could influence death rates, such as age, gender, ethnic group, and the most common causes of mortality in the UK.
Normally, the heart’s natural pacemaker sends out a regular electrical impulse that travels through the heart. But when someone has AF, impulses fire off from different places in the atria causing chaotic electrical activity, which makes them have an irregular, and sometimes fast, pulse. AF affects about one million people in the UK – or 1.7 per cent of the population – but many more are undiagnosed and don’t know they have it.
In a separate study, the researchers also looked at 31,760 heart failure patients discharged from hospitals in the north of England at weekends, finding a 32 per cent increased chance of dying over the next five years compared to those sent home during regular weekday hours.
Across the UK there are more than 500,000 people diagnosed with heart failure.
Heart failure is a disabling condition and severe heart failure can have a worse life expectancy than many cancers. It is most commonly caused following a heart attack when the heart muscle suffers irreparable damage and can no longer pump blood efficiently around the body. In severe cases people with heart failure are left unable to perform regular day to day activities like walking upstairs or are left breathless, even when resting.
Sadly, up to a third of patients admitted to hospital with heart failure will die within twelve months (2).
Dr Rahul Potluri of Aston University’s Medical School, said: “This study shows that the weekend effect is very much a reality for those suffering two of the most prevalent heart conditions in the UK. These patients are, quite simply, more likely to die if admitted or discharged outside regular hours, and that trend is particularly noticeable at the weekend.
Dr Paul Carter, presenting author at the BCS Conference, said: “We took steps during this study to ensure that the comparison between the two groups was as fair as possible.
“It is interesting that both being admitted or discharged from hospital on the weekend confers an increased risk, and one which is sustained in the long-term. We cannot comment on the underlying reasons for this from our study but it suggests that the level of support provided at weekends, from all teams involved in healthcare - in the hospital and in the community should be addressed.”
Dr Potluri added: “What this research shows is that the weekend effect is not a universal phenomenon. Across the two conditions we studied, its impact was varied, suggesting it can’t be tackled effectively by blanket improvements to care.
“Further research is urgently needed to assess what the implications of the weekend effect are for individual conditions, before any costly changes to services are implemented.”
Find out more about the British Cardiovascular Society Conference at http://www.bcs.com/conference.
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Notes to Editors
Abstracts available here: http://www.bcs.com/abstracts3/marker_view.asp?AbstractID=1996http://www.bcs.com/abstracts3/marker_view.asp?AbstractID=1987
Research involved the records 929,552 patients (42,687 admitted with atrial fibrillation (AF) and 31,760 discharged following heart failure) between 1 January 2000 and 31 March 2013 across a number of North England hospitals. Data was analysed according to the ACALM (Algorithm for Comorbidities, Associations, Length of stay and Mortality) study protocol.
1) BHF analysis of 2013/2014 QOF prevalence data2) NICOR National Heart Failure Audit 2013/14 http://www.ucl.ac.uk/nicor/audits/heartfailure/documents/annualreports/hfannual13-14.pdf
About the British Cardiovascular Society (BCS)BCS is the voice for those working in cardiovascular health, science and disease management in the UK; we aim to promote and support both the healthcare professionals who work in cardiology and the patients for whom we want to encourage the best possible treatment. Our members are healthcare professionals, working in the field of cardiovascular health.Find out more at http://www.bcs.com
British Heart FoundationCoronary heart disease is the UK’s single biggest killer. For over 50 years we’ve pioneered research that’s transformed the lives of people living with heart and circulatory conditions. Our work has been central to the discoveries of vital treatments that are changing the fight against heart disease. But so many people still need our help. From babies born with life-threatening heart problems to the many Mums, Dads and Grandparents who survive a heart attack and endure the daily battles of heart failure. Every pound raised, minute of your time and donation to our shops will help make a difference to people’s lives. Find out more at www.bhf.org.uk
About Aston UniversityFounded in 1895 and a University since 1966, Aston University has been always been a force for change. For 50 years the University has been transforming lives through pioneering research, innovative teaching and graduate employability success. Aston is renowned for its opportunity enabler through broad access and inspiring academics, providing education that is applied and has real impact on all areas of society, business and industry. True to Aston’s Coat of Arms which bears the word ‘Forward’, in 2016 Aston will hold a year-long anniversary celebration to recognise its heritage and achievements, but with a focus to drive forward the next stage in the University’s exciting journey. http://www.aston.ac.uk/50
Journal Link: British Cardiovascular Society Conference, Jun-2016
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