A model can predict atrial fibrillation risk in people with chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), according to a study involving more than 2,400 individuals.

Investigators looked at atrial fibrillation at CLL diagnosis, as well as risk of developing it later. Among the results:

• 6% of patients had atrial fibrillation at CLL diagnosis.
• Among the ~2,300 without a history of atrial fibrillation, 6% developed it during follow-up—an incidence rate of ~1%/year.
• Older age, male gender, valvular heart disease, and hypertension were linked with risk of developing atrial fibrillation.