A qualitative crossroads of rhythm and race: Black patients' experiences living with atrial fibrillation.

IMPORTANCE

Race-based disparities in atrial fibrillation (AF) outcomes are well-documented, but few studies have investigated individuals' experiences of living with the condition, particularly among Black individuals.

OBJECTIVE

We aimed to identify common themes and challenges experienced by individuals of Black race with AF.

DESIGN

A tailored, qualitative script was developed to assess the perspectives of participants in focus groups.

SETTING

Virtual focus groups.

PARTICIPANTS

Three focus groups of 4-6 participants (16 participants total) were recruited from the racial/ethnic minority participants in the Mobile Relational Agent to Enhance Atrial Fibrillation Self-care Trial.

MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES

Focus group transcripts were inductively coded to identify common themes.

RESULTS

Nearly all participants self-identified as Black race ( = 15, 93.8 %). Participants were mostly male (62.5 %) with mean age of 67 (range 40-78) years. Three themes were identified. First, participants described physical and mental burdens associated with having AF. Second, participants described AF as being a condition that is difficult to manage. Lastly, participants identified key tenets to support self-management of AF (self-education, community support, and patient-provider relationships).

CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE

Participants reported AF is unpredictable and challenging to manage, and that social and community supports are essential. The social and behavioral themes identified in this qualitative research highlight the need for tailored clinical strategies for AF self-management which incorporate individuals' social contexts.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

National Clinical Trial number 04075994.