The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) has determined that there is not enough evidence to make an official recommendation on screening for atrial fibrillation (AFib) among asymptomatic adults 50 years old and older. In 2018, the last time the group examined this topic, it reached the same conclusion.
The USPSTF examined numerous proposed methods for screening for AFib, including electrocardiograms, automated blood pressure cuffs and even smartphone apps.
“AFib is a major risk factor for stroke, and it often goes undetected,” Gbenga Ogedegbe, MD, MPH, a member of the organization, said in a prepared statement. “Unfortunately, there is not enough evidence to determine whether or not screening for AFib helps prevent stroke, so physicians and healthcare providers should use their clinical judgement when deciding whether to screen their patients.”
The full USPSTF draft recommendation statement is available here. It will be open for public comments until May 17.
Michael has more than 16 years of experience as a professional writer and editor. He has written at length about cardiology, radiology, artificial intelligence and other key healthcare topics.