Atrial fibrillation is associated with which of the following risks?

Atrial fibrillation (AF) significantly increases the risk of stroke because it can cause irregular blood flow in the heart. This irregularity can lead to the formation of blood clots in the atria, particularly in the left atrial appendage. If these clots dislodge, they can travel to the brain, resulting in a stroke. Studies have shown that AF is one of the most important risk factors for stroke, hence the association with increased morbidity and mortality rates.

Additionally, the presence of atrial fibrillation can complicate management for patients with various other health issues, further contributing to an increased risk of mortality. The understanding of AF as a major contributor to adverse cardiovascular outcomes reinforces the necessity for appropriate anticoagulation therapy and careful monitoring in affected individuals to mitigate stroke risk.

The other choices relate to complications or risks that are not directly tied to atrial fibrillation, thereby establishing option A as the only accurate reflection of the associated risks with this condition.