One in three people at risk of heart rhythm disorders

Heart rhythm disorders are becoming more common, yet most people don’t know much about them.

These conditions, which affect how the heart beats, can be dangerous if left untreated. Doctors from the European Heart Rhythm Association (EHRA) want to change that.

On March 1, also known as Pulse Day, they are encouraging people to “Feel the Pulse” and take simple steps to protect their heart health.

A heart rhythm disorder, or arrhythmia, happens when the heart beats too fast, too slow, or in an irregular pattern. Some arrhythmias are harmless, but others can lead to serious health problems like strokes, heart failure, or even sudden cardiac arrest.

The most common type, atrial fibrillation (AF), is becoming more widespread. In 2010, about 33.5 million people worldwide had AF. By 2019, that number had increased to 59 million, and experts predict it could rise by another 60% by 2050.

“Heart rhythm disorders are a silent epidemic,” says Professor Julian Chun, a cardiologist and expert in the field. “More and more people are developing these conditions, but many don’t even realize they are at risk.”

There is also a misconception that only older people get heart rhythm disorders. “That’s simply not true,” says Professor Helmut Pürerfellner, President of EHRA. “These conditions can affect people of all ages, even those who are young and physically fit. Unfortunately, these myths prevent many from recognizing the warning signs and getting the help they need.”

Pulse Day is a global reminder that heart rhythm disorders are common, affecting one in three people at some point in their life. The good news is that a simple pulse check can help detect potential problems early.

Dr. Melanie Gunawardene, a senior cardiologist in Germany, explains, “One of the easiest and most effective things you can do for your heart health is to check your pulse. A normal resting heart rate is between 60 and 100 beats per minute.

If you notice your heart beating too fast, too slow, or in an irregular pattern, don’t panic. There are many reasons why this might happen, and not all of them are serious. But it’s important to see a doctor to rule out any underlying problems.”

Catching heart rhythm issues early can make a big difference. When diagnosed and treated in time, many complications, such as strokes and heart failure, can be prevented.

This study highlights the urgent need for greater awareness of heart rhythm disorders. Despite their growing prevalence, many people still do not recognize the symptoms or know they are at risk.

The findings also stress the importance of simple actions like checking your pulse, which could help detect a problem before it becomes serious.

As cases continue to rise, health experts urge everyone to be proactive. Learning about heart rhythm disorders, understanding the risk factors, and taking action—such as checking your pulse regularly—can save lives. On Pulse Day and beyond, paying attention to your heart could be the key to a healthier future.