Question

A 70-year-old man with chronic atrial fibrillation, hypertension and diabetes (CHADS₂ score 3) is reluctant to take anticoagulation due to fear of bleeding. According to Canadian stroke prevention guidelines, which statement best reflects the balance of risks and benefits of oral anticoagulation?

Accepted Answer

In patients like him, the reduction in ischaemic stroke risk with anticoagulation generally outweighs the increased bleeding risk

Answer

In patients like him, aspirin provides equivalent stroke prevention with lower bleeding risk

Answer

Anticoagulation is only recommended if a prior stroke has occurred

Answer

Anticoagulation is not indicated because he is over 65

Answer

Bleeding risk with direct oral anticoagulants is so high that they are rarely recommended

Practice question

A 70-year-old man with chronic atrial fibrillation, hypertension and diabetes (CHADS₂ score 3) is reluctant to take anticoagulation due to fear of bleeding. According to Canadian stroke prevention guidelines, which statement best reflects the balance of risks and benefits of oral anticoagulation?