Care New England Cardiovascular Care along with the Brigham and Women’s Cardiovascular Associates at Care New England, will offer a free educational forum open to the community on Thursday from 5 to 8 p.m. at the Crowne Plaza Hotel in Warwick. Atrial Fibrillation (AFib) affects more than 2 million people in the United States and is the most common type of irregular heart rhythm (arrhythmia).

“We are very excited to provide this educational forum to the many patients in our community who have atrial fibrillation,” Bruce A. Koplan, MD, MPH, director of the cardiac arrhythmia service for Care New England and a member of the Brigham and Women’s Cardiovascular Associates at Care New England, said in a statement. “Although atrial fibrillation is very common, there are a number of different treatment options that we can offer to patients with this condition to help them live a normal life. We will answer many questions patients may have about the symptoms of AFib and how to maintain an active, healthy lifestyle once diagnosed.”

“Care New England Cardiovascular Care is committed to improving the health of our community, and providing patients with the proper tools, education and medical advice,” said Chester M. Hedgepeth, MD, PhD, executive chief of cardiology, Care New England. “Our goal is to keep patients well, and ensure that they have expert and highly specialized care close to home. This symposium is a great way to reach the large population of patients living with AFib and for physicians to offer their clinical expertise in an informal setting.”

Forum topics will include: Recognizing atrial fibrillation (AFib); What is atrial fibrillation; Medications for rate and rhythm control; Electrical cardioversion for atrial fibrillation; Catheter ablation for atrial fibrillation; and Atrial fibrillation in women.

This educational forum for patients with AFib is being sponsored by Care New England and Brigham and Women’s Cardiovascular Associates at Care New England. It is free and includes dinner. Attendees are welcome to bring a guest. For more information or to register, contact Sue Bartos at Sbartos@kentri.org or call 737-7000, x31650.