In response to a study in the European Heart Journal on the link between Atrial Fibrillation (AF) and an increased risk in death in diabetic patients, Professor. Peter Weissberg, Medical Director at the British Heart Foundation (BHF) said:

"Atrial Fibrillation is a type of irregular heartbeat that is particularly common in people living with diabetes. The condition is often associated with high blood pressure and can lead to a stroke.

"This study reinforces how important it is to treat diabetics with high blood pressure to protect them from future problems, and even more so when they suffer from Atrial Fibrillation."

- This statement was issued in response to: "Risks of cardiovascular events and effects of routine blood pressure lowering among patients with type 2 diabetes and atrial fibrillation: results from the ADVANCE study". European Heart Journal. doi:10.1093/eurheartj/ehp055.

- The British Heart Foundation (BHF) is the nation's heart charity, dedicated to saving lives through pioneering research, patient care, campaigning for change and by providing vital information. But we urgently need help. We rely on donations of time and money to continue our life-saving work. Because together we can save the one you love.

British Heart Foundation