Using storytelling to encourage African Americans with atrial fibrillation to use anticoagulation treatment

Storytelling for Reducing Gap in AC Use in African Americans with Atrial Fibrillation

NIH-funded research Univ of Massachusetts Med Sch Worcester · NIH-10840965

This study is all about helping African Americans with atrial fibrillation understand the importance of taking blood-thinning medication to reduce their stroke risk by using relatable stories that connect with their experiences.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniv of Massachusetts Med Sch Worcester NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Worcester, United States)
Project IDNIH-10840965 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research aims to address the low rates of anticoagulation treatment among African Americans with atrial fibrillation, a condition that significantly increases the risk of stroke. By utilizing storytelling as a method to engage patients, the project will create narratives that resonate with African American patients, helping them to better understand the benefits of anticoagulation and overcome barriers to treatment. The approach involves focus groups to develop relatable stories and a pilot trial to evaluate the effectiveness of these narratives in promoting treatment adherence. The goal is to improve patient outcomes by fostering a deeper connection to the importance of anticoagulation therapy.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are African American patients diagnosed with atrial fibrillation who are currently not adherent to anticoagulation therapy.

Not a fit: Patients who are already adherent to anticoagulation treatment or those not diagnosed with atrial fibrillation may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly increase the rates of anticoagulation treatment among African Americans with atrial fibrillation, thereby reducing their risk of stroke.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that narrative-based interventions can effectively influence health behaviors, suggesting potential success for this storytelling approach.

Where this research is happening

Worcester, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.