Screening elderly women over 70 for atrial fibrillation
Screening for Atrial Fibrillation in Elderly Women Older Than 70 Years
This study is testing a wearable heart monitor to see how many women over 70 have atrial fibrillation, aiming to help improve their treatment options.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 120 (estimated) |
| Ages | 70 Years to 100 Years |
| Sex | Female |
| Sponsor | University of Maryland, Baltimore Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Baltimore, Maryland) |
| Trial ID | NCT05444335 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This pilot study aims to evaluate the prevalence of atrial fibrillation (Afib) in women aged 70 and older, a demographic that is often underrepresented in Afib research. The study will utilize a wearable cardiac monitor, specifically the Zio patch, to proactively screen participants for Afib. Given that women are more likely to experience symptoms and complications from Afib, this research seeks to identify those at risk to improve treatment outcomes. The study is being conducted by the University of Maryland Department of Neurology and Vascular Neurology.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are women aged 70 and older who have not been previously diagnosed with atrial fibrillation and have a CHA2DS2-VASc score of 4 or higher.
Not a fit: Patients with a life expectancy of less than 2 years, dementia, or a CHA2DS2-VASc score of 3 or lower may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to earlier detection and better management of atrial fibrillation in elderly women, potentially reducing stroke risk and improving quality of life.
How similar studies have performed: While this approach is novel in focusing specifically on elderly women, similar studies have shown success in screening for atrial fibrillation in other populations.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: 1. Female sex 2. No previous diagnosis of atrial fibrillation 3. Age ≥70 years 4. CHA2DS2-VASc score ≥4 Exclusion Criteria: 1. Life expectancy \< 2 years 2. Dementia or other neurologic condition which would make outpatient follow-up difficult 3. CHA2DS2-VASc score ≤3 4. Any compliance issues - such as heavy alcohol/drug use that would impede follow up.
Where this trial is running
Baltimore, Maryland
- University of Maryland Medical Center — Baltimore, Maryland, United States (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Prachi Mehndiratta, MBBS — University of Maryland, Baltimore
- Study coordinator: Prachi Mehndiratta, MBBS
- Email: pmehndiratta@som.umaryland.edu
- Phone: 410-328-4170
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.