The UK NSC recommendation on Atrial Fibrillation screening in adults

Recommendation	Systematic population screening programme not recommended, clinical practice guidelines covered by NICE
Last review completed	July 2014
Next review due in	2017/18

Key downloads	Last external review - Review of Screening for Atrial Fibrillation UK NSC coversheet and consultation responses

Systematic population screening is not recommended as it is not clear that those identified as at risk through screening would benefit from early diagnosis.

Find general information about population health screening.

Why is screening not recommended by UK NSC?

The review found that it is not clear that those identified as at risk through screening would benefit from early diagnosis.

The evidence review also highlighted concerns over the available test and the quality of current treatment pathways for AF. The Committee identified a need to improve clinical management and standardise the treatment services currently available to those with diagnosed AF.

More about Atrial Fibrillation

Atrial fibrillation causes a fast and erratic heart beat. It is a complication of various diseases. Medication can slow the heart rate back to normal, and ease symptoms. In some cases, treatment can restore the heart back to a normal rhythm.

Stakeholders

• AF Association
• AntiCoagulation Europe
• Arrhythmia Alliance
• British Cardiovascular Society
• British Heart Foundation
• Central & East London Comprehensive Local Research Network
• Education for Health
• Faculty of Public Health
• Heart Rhythm UK
• HEART UK
• NHS Improvement
• Royal College of General Practitioners
• Royal College of Nursing
• Royal College of Physicians
• Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Glasgow
• Royal College of Physicians of Edinburgh
• Royal College of Surgeons
• Stroke Association

The stakeholder groups will be involved when the recommendation is next reviewed. If you think your organisation should be added, please contact us. More information for stakeholders can be found in appendix C of the UK NSC evidence review process.

Recommendation Review History

The 2014 review of Atrial Fibrillation was the first time the review has been formally review by the UK National Screening Committee.

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