Patient & Public Involvement: Know Your Pulse
Atrial Fibrillation - 'A Hidden Disease'
The National Institute of Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE) advise that Atrial Fibrillation is a ‘hidden disease’ that affects over one in ten people over 75 and is the commonest sustained cardiac rhythm disorder.
The condition is important to diagnose early as it is a major risk factor for Stroke and people with Atrial Fibrillation (AF) have a one in twenty chance of having a Stroke.
AF is the most common arrhythmia seen in primary care. The prevalence of AF roughly doubles with each advancing decade of age, rising to nearly 10% in people over 75.
Heart Rhythm Week takes place between 21st – 27th May 2012 - more information can be found from the Arrhythmia Alliance website http://www.aaaw.org.uk/. And check this website for information about local events and activities.
- ‘Know your pulse’ film – watch a life-saving message in two minutes.
- Pulse Check Guide - this is a simple self-educational four step guide to teach people how to take their pulse, what it means, when they should check it and when it is advised to seek medical investigation for any irregularities. The essence of this resource is to promote prevention through early diagnosis.
- ‘Know Your Pulse' poster - this is a key visual resource which is primarily used to inform people of the key message.
