Stroke Prevention in Nonvalvular Atrial Fibrillation: A Stakeholder Perspective

Abstract

Ischemic stroke in patients with atrial fibrillation is associated with substantial morbidity and mortality. The growing epidemic of atrial fibrillation worldwide has raised concerns about the dire need for effective stroke prevention systems in these patients. Fortunately, the last decade has witnessed a plethora of data on novel stroke prevention methods in patients with nonvalvular atrial fibrillation. However, optimal selection and effective implementation of these preventative strategies require an integrative approach that takes into account not only the available clinical data but also the perspective of each of the stakeholders involved (patient, physician, and society). The goal of this review was to discuss the contemporary issues surrounding stroke prevention in atrial fibrillation from the perspective of these 3 major stakeholders.

Keywords: atrial fibrillation; left atrial appendage; non–vitamin K antagonist oral anticoagulant; oral anticoagulation; risk reduction; stroke.