Jadraas

Atrial fibrillation is a common heart rhythm disorder affecting over 3% of adults, with symptoms ranging from none to severe. It can be permanent or occur in short episodes, sometimes going unnoticed. This condition increases the risk of stroke by five times if untreated. Screening people aged 75 or older may help detect new cases of atrial fibrillation, but participation in screening programs has been low, especially among those who might benefit most. This research is investigating different ways to invite elderly individuals to screening to improve participation rates and outcomes. The study compares two methods of inviting 75- and 76-year-olds in the Värmland region to atrial fibrillation screening. One group receives a letter inviting them to screening at a hospital clinic (systematic screening), while the other group is invited opportunistically when they visit their primary care facility for any reason. Participants will use a hand-held single-lead ECG device, sent by mail, to record heart rhythms three times daily and during symptoms. ECGs are transmitted via mobile network and reviewed by trained physiologists. Positive results lead to primary care follow-up for treatment, while negative results are communicated by mail. The study includes a sub-study using artificial intelligence to assess risk of developing atrial fibrillation and to support ECG interpretation. Participants will be asked to complete a health questionnaire and use the ECG device during the screening period. Researchers will track participation rates and new atrial fibrillation diagnoses over 12 months. Secondary outcomes will be evaluated through national patient registries after one year. The study's goal is to understand which invitation method leads to better screening participation and to explore the effectiveness of AI in predicting atrial fibrillation risk and aiding diagnosis.