Partnering with patients in shared decision-making for stroke prevention in atrial fibrillation

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common cardiac arrhythmia. The population prevalence of AF ranges from 2.3 to 3.4% and is estimated to double by 2050 as we approach epidemic levels.1 AF is a major, complex and challenging risk factor for stroke. It is estimated that about 20% of all strokes are a consequence of AF. AF-related strokes affect more of the brain, are usually more severe and are associated with greater levels of disability with poorer outcomes.2Anticoagulation is a well-established pharmacotherapy to reduce the risk of stroke in patients with AF; however, the rates of thromboprophylaxis remain poor,3 with only 60–70% of eligible patients receiving anticoagulation drugs