Atrial fibrillation (AF) pilot screening programme in primary care in Ireland: an implementation study protocol.

ABSTRACT:

Introduction

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is a major risk factor for stroke. There is a fivefold increase in stroke risk in the presence of AF. The irregular beating of the heart enables blood stasis which allows clots to form. These can migrate to the brain causing a stroke. AF is common and its incidence increases with age. AF is often asymptomatic and early detection enables effective preventive treatment reducing stroke risk by up to two-thirds.Stroke contributes significantly to morbidity and mortality globally. In Ireland, it is the leading cause of acquired disability and second leading cause of death. The cost associated with stroke is significant. Stroke risk increases with age and is a public health priority.Internationally, there is consensus among experts that AF screening

SUBMITTER: Callanan A 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC8823239 | biostudies-literature | 2022 Feb

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature