How can we avoid a stroke crisis

A report from a multidisciplinary alliance has made a compelling case for a coordinated plan in Europe to reduce the health, social and economic burdens of stroke related to atrial fibrillation (AF). The group comprises eminent cardiologists, neurologists, a health economists, hospital pharmacists, a haematologist and representatives from patient organisations. How Can We Avoid a Stroke Crisis? has been endorsed by 17 medical and patient organisations, including the European Primary Care Cardiovascular Society. Its aim is to highlight to European policy makers the need to achieve earlier diagnosis and better management of AF across Europe, with the ultimate goal of reducing the risk of stroke in patients with AF. The key points summarised in the report are shown in table 1.