. Discussion
The present study demonstrated that the prevalence of AF increased
among residents in the evacuation zone of Fukushima prefecture after
the Great East Japan Earthquake. In addition, excess alcohol intake and
obesity were associated with an increased risk of AF. To our knowledge,
this is the first study to show an association between an increased
prevalence of AF and catastrophic disasters. Moreover, the findings in
the present study suggest that lifestyle factors such as alcohol habits,
overeating, and physical exercise should be carefully managed after
catastrophic disasters, especially among evacuees, to prevent the development
of cardiovascular diseases.
The presence of AF increases the risk of mortality and morbidity
independently of impaired quality of life, stroke, and congestive heart