REACT-AF AFib Research Study
JHU’s AFib Research Study at Westchester Medical Center Health is being conducted to better to determine if it is safe for patients with occasional episodes of AFib to pause their blood thinner medication when their heart rhythm is normal.
Fast Facts
Taking A Blood Thinner
History of AFib
22-85 Years Old
Conducted in Valhalla, NY
Study Background
The REACT-AF research study aims to assess whether it is safe and effective to stop oral anticoagulation medications during prolonged periods of normal heart rhythm in participants with infrequent episodes of atrial fibrillation (AFib).
This multicenter trial involves patients with a history of non-permanent AFib and a low-to-moderate stroke risk. Participants will either continue with their regular blood thinners (control group) or be provided with an Apple Watch for continuous heart monitoring, with anticoagulation medication administered only during AFib episodes lasting longer than one hour (intervention group).
The research study involves both in-person and virtual components, such as wearing the Apple Watch and completing quarterly surveys via a study app. This trial seeks to improve AFib treatment approaches and reduce the risks associated with continuous blood thinner use, such as bleeding complications​.
Study Background
The REACT-AF research study aims to assess whether it is safe and effective to stop oral anticoagulation medications during prolonged periods of normal heart rhythm in participants with infrequent episodes of atrial fibrillation (AFib).
This multicenter trial involves patients with a history of non-permanent AFib and a low-to-moderate stroke risk. Participants will either continue with their regular blood thinners (control group) or be provided with an Apple Watch for continuous heart monitoring, with anticoagulation medication administered only during AFib episodes lasting longer than one hour (intervention group).
The research study involves both in-person and virtual components, such as wearing the Apple Watch and completing quarterly surveys via a study app. This trial seeks to improve AFib treatment approaches and reduce the risks associated with continuous blood thinner use, such as bleeding complications​.
Study PIs:
Rod Passman, MD, MSCE, Northwestern University
Dan Hanley, MD, Johns Hopkins University
JHM IRB00354588
Additional Information
This research aims to reduce the risk of stroke while also decreasing the risk of bleeding, which is a common side effect of long-term blood thinner use.
You may qualify for this research study if you meet the following criteria.
Inclusion Criteria:
- Ages 22-85
- Have a history of AFib (a type of abnormal heart rhythm)
- Taking a blood thinner
- Have a smartwatch-compatible iPhone that supports the latest iOS with a cellular service plan
- Speak English
- Have not been diagnosed with permanent AFib, mechanical valve or severe valve disease, or hypertrophic cardiomyopathy
- Participants will first complete a screening process to assess eligibility.
- If enrolled, they will be randomized into one of two groups:
- Control group, where they will continue their current blood thinner regimen
- Intervention group, where they will receive an Apple Watch to monitor their heart rhythm and take blood thinners only during prolonged AFib episodes.
- Participants will need to attend one in-person enrollment visit and complete quarterly surveys via a study app over a 3-5 year period.
There’s no compensation. However, those who are randomized to intervention will receive an Apple Watch.
There is no cost for you to participate in our research study.
