Episode 42. Atrial Fibrillation and DOAC's with Dr Matthew Swale
Atrial fibrillation is the most commonly experienced arrhythmia increasing in prevalence with age. It is estimated that 3 in 1000 under the age of 65 years have atrial fibrillation rising to 9% of people reaching the age of 80 years. The rate of stroke in untreated atrial fibrillation ranges from 5% per year with minimally associated risk factors up to 15-20% per year with associated risk factors such as hypertension, diabetes mellitus, heart failure and a history of vascular disease. The mortality of atrial fibrillation related to stroke is high and estimated at 25% in 12 months.
Not only is it very important to recognise atrial fibrillation it is also important to understand how to provide adequate anticoagulation. Whilst warfarin has been available since the 1950’s as a vitamin K inhibitor limiting the hepatic synthesis of factor II, VII, IX and X as well as protein C and S, since 2008 factor Xa inhibitors and direct thrombin inhibitors referred to as direct oral active anticoagulants or DOACs have become available, avoiding the food and drug interactions that are commonly seen with warfarin and the need for regular drug monitoring.
We are joined in this episode by experienced electrophysiologist and cardiologist Dr Matthew Swale to discuss:
· Atrial fibrillation and its risks
· Anticoagulation with DOACs
· Anticoagulation post stenting
This is a great conversation with Matthew and I am very pleased to invite you to the episode.
Useful references include:
To be a guest on the show or provide some feedback, I’d love to hear from you: manager@gihealth.com.au
Dr Luke Crantock MBBS, FRACP, is a gastroenterologist in practice for over 25 years. He is the founder of The Centre for GI Health, based in Melbourne Australia and is passionate about educating General Practitioners and patients on disease prevention and how to manage and improve their digestive health.