Campaign for AF
AFA is eager to get our members active in raising awareness of the impact of atrial fibrillation. Without committed, energetic supporters we can't improve the care and quality of life of people affected by AF. By taking a few minutes to complete one of the simple actions below, or going that bit further and organising your own event, you can raise funds and teach people about the devastating impact atrial fibrillation can have.
Remember, there are more than 1.5 million people with AF in the UK alone, and many more a diagnosed every year. The condition places that person at a risk of stroke that is five times greater than average. A simple pulse check to detect an arrhythmia can prevent a lifetime of ill-health. Your actions can help to achieve this.
If you have one minute...
Follow us on Twitter (AtrialFibUK), or Like us on Facebook (Atrial Fibrillation Association).
Why not leave us a comment or send us a Tweet to introduce yourself? We're always delighted to hear from our supporters.
If you have five minutes...
Watch the Know Your Pulse film to understand why early diagnosis and appropriate treatment of AF is so important. As the condition becomes more common in the future, knowing the signs will be important for preventing an increase in health problems, particularly strokes. Educate yourself, then share it with your friends (in real life or on Facebook) to let them know too.
Add your name to the Sign Against Stroke in AF petition. This will show your support for better awareness, education, and care of atrial fibrillation.
If you have ten minutes...
We are keen for as many MPs as possible to hear about AFA’s new publication Healthcare Pioneers: showcasing innovative practice in Atrial Fibrillation. The booklet provides examples of where local healthcare professionals are working to provide successful AF care across England and Wales.
Your letter is important as it may be that one of the examples could be applicable for your local population, saving your commissioners money and, ultimately, lives.
Contacting your MP is easy. You can find out who your MP is by typing in your postcode at the following link:
http://www.parliament.uk/mps-lords-and-offices/mps/
This website will then provide contact details for your MP. Once you have found this, you can write to them at: Your MP’s name, House of Commons, London, SW1A 0AA
We have drafted a template letter which you can personalise and send to your MP.
We’d be delighted if you could share with us any response you receive at info@afa.org.uk
Or support our Know Your Pulse campaign
AFA is campaigning for the government to introduce a simple pulse check at the end of NHS health checkups and after winter flu vaccinations. This test takes less than two minutes, yet almost always detects if an individual has AF, allowing the doctor to begin treatment and reduce the negative health effects of the condition.
Send a letter to your MP, asking them to lobby the Chief Executive of the local PCT to include pulse checks for at-risk individuals.