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Screening followed by appropriate anticoagulation for atrial fibrillation (AF) has yet to show a benefit in reducing stroke risk. The industry-funded, prospective, randomized, controlled GUARD-AF trial (NCT04126486) evaluated whether a 14-day patch monitor would lead to a reduction in stroke risk without increasing risk for hemorrhage.
The trial included nearly 12,000 patients aged ≥70 years enrolled from primary care practices in the U.S. They were randomized to receive screening with a 14-day continuous electrocardiograph patch monitor or standard care. During a median follow-up of 15 months, results were as follows:
Screening improved recognition of AF (≥1 episode lasting >30 seconds) compared with standard care (5.0% vs. 3.3%).
Oral antico…