Comparing two strategies for preventing strokes in patients with atrial fibrillation using smartwatch monitoring.
2/2 REACT-AF: Rhythm Evaluation for AntiCoagulaTion with Continuous Monitoring of Atrial Fibrillation
This study is looking at two ways to help people with atrial fibrillation avoid strokes: one method uses a daily blood thinner, while the other starts the blood thinner only when a serious heart rhythm issue is detected by an Apple Watch, to see if this can lower the risk of bleeding while still keeping strokes at bay.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Johns Hopkins University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baltimore, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10927288 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates two different approaches to prevent strokes in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF). One approach uses continuous direct oral anticoagulation (DOAC), while the other employs a novel strategy where anticoagulation is only initiated after detecting a significant AF episode using an Apple Watch. By monitoring heart rhythms continuously, the study aims to determine if this targeted approach can reduce bleeding risks associated with long-term anticoagulation while still effectively preventing strokes. Patients will be randomly assigned to one of the two treatment strategies to evaluate their safety and efficacy.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with a history of paroxysmal or persistent atrial fibrillation and a low-to-moderate risk of stroke.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have atrial fibrillation or those with high stroke risk may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to safer and more effective stroke prevention methods for patients with atrial fibrillation.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using technology for monitoring heart conditions, but this specific approach of time-delimited anticoagulation based on smartwatch data is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
Baltimore, United States
- Johns Hopkins University — Baltimore, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Hanley, Daniel F — Johns Hopkins University
- Study coordinator: Hanley, Daniel F
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.