Cardiovascular & Kidney Diseases

Atrial Fibrillation

In AF, the upper chambers of the heart (known as the atria) contract irregularly. As a result, the atria do not empty completely and blood does not flow properly, potentially allowing blood clots to form. These blood clots can break loose and travel to the brain, resulting in stroke.

Atrial fibrillation (AF)

The number of people with AF is forecast to increase approximately 2.5-fold by 2050 due to the ageing of the population and improved survival following conditions that predispose to AF such as a heart attack. People with AF are 5 times more likely to suffer a stroke than people without AF. AF-related strokes are also associated with a 50% likelihood of death within one year.

Different medicines exist that inhibit clot formation in patients with AF in order to prevent stroke. Bayer offers such a product that may be of benefit for these patients. It is important for doctors and patients to discuss all available treatment options to ensure the patient receives the best medication for him / her.

Two doctors looking at mri images on a tablet.

LIVING WITH A DISEASE

Stroke

Stroke is the second most common cause of death worldwide, responsible for 6.7 million deaths each year. Of those who survive a stroke, 5 million are left disabled every year.

A blood pressure sphygmomanometer on a table next to a nurse.

LIVING WITH A DISEASE

High Blood Pressure

When the heart beats, it pumps blood into the arteries, building up pressure – systolic blood pressure – on the walls of the blood vessels.

LIVING WITH A DISEASE

Heart Failure

Heart failure is the fastest growing cardiovascular disease in prevalence affecting more than 60 million people worldwide and posing substantial morbidity, mortality and economic burden.