Atrial fibrillation
Overall, similar numbers of women and men have atrial fibrillation. But the condition becomes more common with age, and women have a longer life expectancy than do men. Therefore, the authors noted, atrial fibrillation will become more common as the population of elderly women increases.
They recommend that primary care physicians actively screen women for atrial fibrillation once they reach age 75 years. The screening method, supported by Level B evidence, should be pulse followed by an electrocardiogram.
For women aged 65 years and younger who have atrial fibrillation but no other risk factors, there is no evidence supporting oral anticoagulation. Level B evidence does support antiplatelet therapy.
Dr. Bushnell had no financial disclosures. One of the 16 coauthors reported relationships with several pharmaceutical companies
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