The management of atrial fibrillation has evolved significantly over the last ten years with advancements in medical and catheter ablation approaches, but these have limited success when used in isolation. Trends in the management of lifestyle modifications have surfaced, as it is now better understood that modifiable risk factors contribute significantly to the development and propagation of atrial fibrillation, as well as failure of treatment. International guidelines have integrated the role of lifestyle modification in the management of atrial fibrillation and specifically in the persistent form of atrial fibrillation; these guidelines must be addressed prior to considering catheter ablation. Effective risk factor modification is critical in increasing the likelihood of an arrhythmia-free survival following catheter ablation.
Keywords: atrial fibrillation; catheter ablation; lifestyle; lifestyle modification; rate control; rhythm control; risk factors.