A Sober Reality? Alcohol, Abstinence, and Atrial Fibrillation

This editorial discusses the role of alcohol abstinence in managing atrial fibrillation (AF), referencing a randomized trial by Voskoboinik et al. (2020) where abstinence significantly reduced AF recurrence and burden. Moderate-to-heavy alcohol consumption is linked to AF through atrial remodeling, triggered activity, and autonomic effects. While the trial demonstrated benefits of abstinence, limitations include a small sample size (85% male), short follow-up (6 months), and challenges in long-term adherence. 

This editorial discusses the role of alcohol abstinence in managing atrial fibrillation (AF), referencing a randomized trial by Voskoboinik et al. (2020) where abstinence significantly reduced AF recurrence and burden. Moderate-to-heavy alcohol consumption is linked to AF through atrial remodeling, triggered activity, and autonomic effects. While the trial demonstrated benefits of abstinence, limitations include a small sample size (85% male), short follow-up (6 months), and challenges in long-term adherence.