The multivariable Cox regression analysis showed that age [hazard ratio (HR) 1.020, 95% CI 1.004–1.035, p = 0.011], prior AF (HR 3.521, 95% CI 2.831–5.206, p < 0.001), white cell count (HR 1.039, 95% CI 1.007–1.072, p = 0.016) and high CRP (above median, HR 1.039, 95% CI 1.021–2.056, p = 0.038) were independently associated with AHREs onset (Table 2). Here, CRP is linked to atrial fibrillation.