Physical Activity Lowers Stroke Death Risk in AFib

A large Norwegian cohort study published in the Journal of the American Heart Association on August 5, 2026, found that physical activity is associated with a lower risk of stroke and all-cause mortality in adults with and without atrial fibrillation (AFib). Analyzing data from over 87,000 adults in the HUNT and Tromso studies, researchers led by Kristoffer Johansen of The Arctic University of Norway observed that compared to inactive adults, those with low, moderate, or high activity had 9%, 19%, and 18% lower stroke risk, and 11%, 18%, and 22% lower mortality risk, respectively. Benefits were similar regardless of AFib status, and among AFib patients, activity was linked to 0.5 to 1.2 additional years of life expectancy. The study suggests physical activity as a complementary preventive strategy to conventional AFib treatment. Limitations include observational design and self-reported activity. Mina Chung of the Cleveland Clinic, co-chair of a 2023 AFib guideline, commented that the findings add important evidence but noted activity may reflect overall health.