Global longitudinal strain predicts atrial fibrillation in individuals without hypertension: A Community-based cohort study

Background Global longitudinal strain (GLS) is a sensitive marker of myocardial dysfunction and atrial reservoir function. We sought to evaluate its value for predicting atrial fibrillation (AF) in the general population. Methods Participants from the Copenhagen City Heart Study examined with echocardiography, including speckle tracking analyses, were included. The endpoint was AF obtained through national registries. Proportional hazards Cox regression was applied, including multivariable adjustments made for CHADS 2 and CHARGE-AF risk factors. Abnormal GLS was defined as >—18%. Results The data from 1,309 participants were analyzed. Of those, 153 (12%) developed AF during a median follow-up time of 15.9 years. The follow-up was 100%. The mean age was 57 years, 38% had hypertension, and GLS was − 18%. In unadjusted analysis, GLS was a univariable predictor of outcome (1.08 (1.04–1.13), p