Atrial fibrillation and anticoagulation risk in advanced age a conundrum

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Atrial fibrillation and anticoagulation risk in advanced age a conundrum

Ngaire Kerse

Ngaire Kerse

Elderly woman with pills

The risk–benefit assessment for anticoagulation in atrial fibrillation in the elderly is a conundrum, but considering the relative consequences of stroke, which might be greater than those of anticoagulant-related bleeds, can be of help in decision-making

Key points -Atrial fibrillation (AF) is strongly age-related, prevalence is increasing with the ageing demographic and Māori are over-represented.
References

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3. BPAC. Management of atrial fibrillation in general practice. Best Pract J 2011. BPJ: 39. Available online at https://bpac.org.nz/bpj/2011/october/af.aspx

4. Teh R, Kerse N, Kepa M et al. Self-rated health, health-related behaviours and medical conditions of Maori and non-Maori in advanced age: LiLACS NZ. NZ Med J 2014;127(1397):13–29.

5. BPAC. The use of antithrombotic medicines in general practice: a consensus statement. Best Pract J 2011. BPJ: 39. Available online at https://bpac.org.nz/bpj/2011/october/antithrombotic.aspx

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