The final model (− 2 log likelihood = 140.81, Chi-square = 23.98, p < 0.001***) included AF and DM as statistically significant parameters for the prediction of all-cause mortality and in line with the results from Kaplan–Meier analysis and even though many clinical parameters were included for the analysis, IRX3 promoter methylation was an independent predictor for all-cause mortality as well (Fig. 5A, HR = 0.59, CI = 0.40–0.86, p = 0.006). The gene discussed is IRX3; the disease is atrial fibrillation.