AF-CARE Pathway Components — EECC MCQ
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Correct answer: A — C = Comorbidity and risk factor management; A = Avoid stroke (anticoagulation); R = Reduce symptoms (rate/rhythm control); E = Evaluation and dynamic reassessment — this structured approach replaces the previous ABC pathway
The 2024 ESC AF Guidelines introduced the AF-CARE pathway (replacing the previous ABC pathway): C — Comorbidity and risk factor management: treat HTN, obesity (10% weight loss target), OSA, diabetes, alcohol reduction/abstinence (Alcohol-AF trial), exercise, smoking cessation — comorbidity management is positioned FIRST because it modifies the AF substrate; A — Avoid stroke/thromboembolism: CHA₂DS₂-VA assessment, anticoagulation (DOACs preferred, warfarin for mechanical valves/rheumatic MS); R — Reduce symptoms through rate and/or rhythm control: individualised approach, early rhythm control supported by EAST-AFNET 4; E — Evaluation: regular reassessment of symptoms, treatment efficacy, adherence, side effects, and evolving risk factors. The emphasis on comorbidity management as the FIRST component reflects the paradigm shift toward treating the underlying AF drivers rather than just the arrhythmia itself.
Reference: ESC (2024): AF Guidelines