A SMART approach to reducing paroxysmal atrial fibrillation symptoms: Results from a pilot randomized controlled trial.

Background: Stress and negative emotions contribute to atrial fibrillation (AF). Mind-body practices decrease stress and negative emotions and may reduce AF episodes and improve quality of life for patients with AF.

Objective: We examined the effects of a multimodal mind-body program, the SMART Program, on AF-related quality of life in patients with paroxysmal AF (PAF).

Methods: In this randomized, waitlist-controlled pilot trial, 18 subjects with PAF participated in an 8-week SMART Program delivered online immediately or 3 months later. Validated measures were completed at baseline and at 3 and 6 months (waitlist group only).

Results: Comparing pre- vs post-program scores among all 18 participants, subjects reported improvement in AF-related quality of life (Cohen's d = 0.75, = .005) and depression (d = 0.50,  = .05) but not anxiety (d = 0.35, = .16). Subjects also reported improvements in AF symptom severity ( = .026), distress ( = .014), positive affect ( = .003), and ability to cope with stress ( = .001). Compared to waitlist control subjects, those in the immediate group reported improvement in positive affect (d = 1.20, = .021) and coping with stress (d = 1.36,  = .011) after participating in the program.

Conclusion: The SMART Program, delivered virtually, may enhance positive emotions and coping with stress as well as decrease negative emotions and AF symptoms. These results warrant a larger trial to better understand the potential benefits of such programs for patients with PAF.