Sanofi-aventis’ RealiseAF highlights global impact of atrial fibrillation

Sanofi-aventis has published data from a global survey of atrial fibrillation (AF) patients, revealing the impact the disease has on the welfare of sufferers.

Results from the RealiseAF study, which involved more than 10,000 patients, show that less than 40 per cent of patients are able to achieve control over their condition, while a majority of sufferers continue to experience AF symptoms.

In addition, this patient group was also shown to be at a pronounced risk of cardiovascular events such as hypertension, dyslipidemia, heart failure and stroke, which often lead to unplanned hospitalisations.

Professor Gabriel Steg of the department of cardiology at the Hopital Bichat in Paris, on behalf of the RealiseAF steering committee, said this shows the need for improved management of the condition.

He explained: "The data suggests a need for new therapies and an increased focus on cardiovascular outcomes, as well as a more stringent adherence to guidelines."

Earlier this month, Sanofi-aventis was granted a class I recommendation in accordance with European Society of Cardiology guidelines for its atrial fibrillation treatment Multaq.