Researchers from the University of Navarra (Spain), in association with doctors from the University Hospital of Donostia, disclosed that they have spotted two biomarkers. Reportedly, these biomarkers are linked with the threat of suffering atrial fibrillation, a cardiac ailment that impacts over 33.5 Million individuals globally. In the European Union, this health condition is found in about 8.8 Million individuals over 55 Years of age. At the same time in Spain, it affects over 4% of the people above 40 Years of age. According to the World Health Organization, this disease is an endemic owing to its high mortality and morbidity. Owing to its high occurrence, it is said to be a public health issue.
Atrial fibrillation is said to be the most widespread variation of the heart rhythm (arrhythmia). Its occurrence is common when the heart pumps blood in an irregular and accelerated way, thus growing the threat of witnessing a heart attack, stroke, heart failure, or other complications associated with this organ.
On a similar note, by studying huge patient data, researchers have discovered a marker that can forecast the survival of severe lung disease. The illness, named idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, can develop without prior warning and can lead to permanent scarring in the lungs. This health condition ultimately cements the flexible tissue over time until it can no longer spread out.
As the scarred lung tissue cannot regain its functionality, the only real treatment for the disease is said to be the lung transplant. However, there is a shortage of replacement lungs to go around. To complicate matters even more, not all pulmonary fibrosis diagnoses begin the same, a few individuals suffering from the disease might have just a year to live. At the same time, some others might have five years. However, it is difficult to forecast it at the time of diagnosis. Now, Nigam Shah, Ph.D., and Purvesh Khatri, Ph.D., have discovered a biomarker that highlights which pulmonary fibrosis patient is most at risk for impending lung failure.
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