Global surge in serious heart rhythm disorders sparks urgent call to action from experts: 1 in 3 people at risk

Sophia Antipolis, France, 1 March 2025: 1 in 3 people worldwide will develop a potentially life-threatening heart rhythm disorder in their lifetime, yet awareness remains critically low. With cases rising rapidly, cardiologists from the European Heart Rhythm Association (EHRA) are urging communities and healthcare systems to “Feel the Pulse” on Pulse Day, 1 March, and take simple steps to raise awareness of these serious but often overlooked conditions.

Heart rhythm disorders, also known as cardiac arrhythmias, occur when the heart’s electrical conduction system malfunctions, causing the heart to beat too quickly, slowly, or irregularly. While some heart rhythm disorders are harmless, others can lead to severe complications such as stroke, heart failure, or cardiac arrest if left untreated.

The most common heart rhythm disorder, atrial fibrillation, has seen a marked rise in global prevalence, from 33.5 million cases in 2010 to 59 million in 2019.¹ Projections suggest that number could increase by more than 60% in 2050.²

“Heart rhythm disorders are a silent epidemic,” says Professor Julian Chun, Chair of the EHRA’s Scientific Initiatives Committee. “Their prevalence is increasing dramatically, yet many people remain unaware of the risks and symptoms.”

“There are also widespread misconceptions about who can be affected,” Professor Helmut Pürerfellner, EHRA President furthers. “A common myth exists that heart rhythm disorders only impact older adults, but this is far from the truth. People of all ages and fitness levels can develop these conditions, often without warning. Such misconceptions can delay diagnosis and treatment, putting lives at risk.”

Marcin’s Story: A Wake-Up Call

Marcin Ruciński was just 25 years old when he suddenly lost consciousness when stepping into his apartment. Severe abnormalities in his heart’s rhythm were detected and Marcin was later diagnosed with atrial fibrillation and tachycardia.

“Initially, I was terrified,” recalls Marcin.  “I thought, ‘How is it possible that a young and previously healthy person has a heart problem?’ At that time, access to information was limited and persistent symptoms like dizziness limited my activities.”

However, over time, with treatment and support from specialists and loved ones, Marcin learned to live with his arrhythmia.

“Living with an arrhythmia has been a continuous battle but is also one of many victories,” Marcin explains. “Looking back now, I see the diagnosis as the start of a journey toward a better life with greater self-care and health awareness. Thanks to my treatment, I can function normally, pursue my passions and enjoy life."

“I encourage everyone to act quickly if they feel their pulse and believe something could be wrong. Your health is your greatest treasure, and you have the power to fight for it!”

The Power of a Pulse Check

Held annually on 1 March (1/3), Pulse Day serves as a powerful reminder that 1 in 3 people is at risk of developing a serious heart rhythm disorder in their lifetime. The global awareness day also offers an inspiring call to action for people to take simple yet impactful steps to protect their heart health.

Dr. Melanie Gunawardene, Senior Cardiology Physician at Asklepios Hospital St. Georg in Hamburg, Germany, explains, “One of the simplest and most effective actions you can take is to check your pulse. A typical heart rate should fall between 60 to 100 beats per minute. If you notice an unusually high, low or irregular rhythm, don’t worry – there are many possible causes for these variations, not all of which are linked to serious heart conditions. However, it’s important to consult a healthcare professional for further evaluation, as early detection and intervention can help minimise potentially serious complications in later life.”

“Recognising the signs early through a pulse check could make all the difference in safeguarding your future,” she emphasises.

ENDS

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References and notes

[1] Linz, D. et al (2024). Atrial fibrillation: epidemiology, screening and digital health. Available from: https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lanepe/article/PIIS2666-7762(23)00205-3/fulltext

[2] Lippi, G. et al (2021). Global epidemiology of atrial fibrillation: An increasing epidemic and public health challenge. Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31955707/

About Pulse Day

Pulse Day is an annual global awareness initiative organised by the European Heart Rhythm Association (EHRA) alongside its sister societies: the Heart Rhythm Association (HRA), the Asia-Pacific Heart Rhythm Society (APHRS), and the Latin American Heart Rhythm Society (LAHRS). Held every year on 1 March, Pulse Day aims to educate and inspire individuals worldwide to take simple steps to protect their heart health, such as checking their pulse regularly and seeking medical advice when any irregularities are detected.

• Video: What is Pulse Day? - Watch here
• Video: Take your pulse - Watch here

About the European Heart Rhythm Association

The European Heart Rhythm Association (EHRA) is a branch of the European Society of Cardiology (ESC). Its aim is to improve patients’ quality of life and reduce sudden cardiac death by limiting the impact of heart rhythm disturbances. 

EHRA 2025 will be held from 30 March to 1 April in Vienna, Austria, and online. Explore the Scientific Programme. Free registration applies to accredited press.

About the European Society of Cardiology

The ESC brings together health care professionals from more than 150 countries, working to advance cardiovascular medicine and help people to live longer, healthier lives.