Transcript Final Report

AF Survey
Final Report
AUGUST 2014
Prepared by:
Introduction and Methodology
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Study Overview
The purpose of this study was to evaluate the impact of Atrial Fibrillation
(AFib)-related stroke on patients and caregivers, and to evaluate physician
perceptions toward treatment and patient understanding of issues
surrounding the condition.
Specific research objectives were to:

Understand the impact of AFib-related stroke on patients and caregivers

Measure awareness of facts surrounding AFib and stroke

Uncover the barriers to communication between patients/caregivers and
providers related specifically to AFib and stroke

Identify barriers in understanding risk factors

Determine steps taken to learn more about AFib

Evaluate experiences living with AFib and experiencing stroke
To meet those objectives, Russell Research, an independent survey
research firm, conducted a telephone and online study among the following
populations:
507 Physicians
 202 Cardiologists (sample error of +/- 6.9 percent)
 101 Electrophysiologists (sample error of +/- 9.8 percent)
 53 Neurologists (sample error of +/- 13.5 percent)
 151 Primary Care Physicians/Internal Medicine/Family Medicine (referred
to as “General Practitioners” in the report) (sample error of +/- 8.0 percent)
 At a 95 percent confidence level, a margin of sample error of +/- 4.4
percent applies to the total physician sample.
499 Atrial Fibrillation patients
 248 Atrial Fibrillation-only (sample error of +/- 6.2 percent)
 251 Stroke Survivors (sample error of +/- 6.2 percent)
 At a 95 percent confidence level, a margin of sample error of +/- 4.4
percent applies to the total patient sample.
203 Caregivers of Stroke Survivors with Atrial Fibrillation
At a 95 percent confidence level, a margin of sample error of +/- 6.9 percent
applies to the total caregiver sample.
Interviewing for the study was conducted from May 27 – July 3, 2014.
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Introduction and Methodology
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Sample Criteria
In order to qualify for study inclusion, respondents were screened to meet
the following criteria:
Physicians







Ages 25 or older
Have treated 10 or more AFib-related stroke patients in the past year (25
or more for Neurologists)
Spend 70% or more of their time in clinical practice or direct patient care
Board certified or board-eligible
No pharmaceutical manufacturer employees in household
Regularly see Atrial Fibrillation patients (Stroke patients for Neurologists)
Average patient age is 18 or older
Atrial Fibrillation Patients


Have been diagnosed with Atrial Fibrillation
Stroke Survivors have experienced a stroke in the past
Caregivers

Currently a caregiver for someone who has been diagnosed with Atrial
Fibrillation and has experienced a stroke in the past
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Introduction and Methodology
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Sample Source & Methodology
Respondents for the study were sourced and interviewed as follows:
Physicians: Online Methodology




Cardiologists: M3 Medical Market Research
Electrophysiologists: M3 Medical Market Research & Heart Rhythm
Society
53 Neurologists: M3 Medical Market Research & National Stroke
Association
151 General Practitioners: M3 Medical Market Research
Atrial Fibrillation Patients


Atrial Fibrillation Patients: Conducted online, sample provided by Survey
Sampling International & Research Now
Stroke Survivors: Conducted online and via telephone, sample provided
by National Stroke Association, Survey Sampling International &
Research Now
Caregivers

Conducted online and via telephone, sample provided by National Stroke
Association, Survey Sampling International & Research Now
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Statistical Notation
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Statistical Notation
The statistical significance of a result in this survey is the probability that the
observed relationship (e.g., between variables) or a difference (e.g., between
means) in a sample occurred by pure chance, and that in the population from
which the sample was drawn, no such relationship or differences exist. Using less
technical terms, one could say that the statistical significance of a result tells us
something about the degree to which the result is "true". More technically, the
value of the p-value represents a decreasing index of the reliability of a result.
The higher the p-value, the less we can believe that the observed relation
between variables in the sample is a reliable indicator of the relation between the
respective variables in the population. Specifically, the p-value represents the
probability of error that is involved in accepting our observed result as valid, that
is, as "representative of the population." For example, a p-value of .05 (i.e.,1/20)
indicates that there is a 5% probability that the relation between the variables
found in our sample is a "fluke."
The following statistical notations are used throughout the report:
=
Indicates figure is significantly higher than other sub-group at a 95%
confidence level (i.e. p-value of .05 or less).
C = Cardiologists
E = Electrophysiologists
N = Neurologists
P = General Practitioner (PCP/IM/FM)
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Detailed Findings
Executive Summary
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Executive Summary
Physicians
A majority of physicians believe most Atrial Fibrillation patients don’t usually
understand their increased risk of stroke and feel most patients underestimate the
impact ischemic stroke can have on their lives.

Virtually all physicians (97%) agree that AFib-related ischemic stroke can have devastating
outcomes.

More than one-half of physicians (55%) indicate their typical Atrial Fibrillation patient does not
usually understand their risk of ischemic stroke due to Atrial Fibrillation.

Nine in ten physicians (90%) believe that many Atrial Fibrillation patients underestimate the
impact an AFib-related stroke could have on their everyday lives.

Four in five physicians (79%) believe many AFib patients are in denial about their risk of
experiencing an ischemic stroke.
Reducing the risk of Atrial Fibrillation-related ischemic stroke is almost always the
primary objective when prescribing anticoagulation therapy. A variety of compliance
barriers exist, and typically vary by specialty.

More than four in five physicians (85%) indicate their primary objective when prescribing
anticoagulation therapy to patients with Atrial Fibrillation is to reduce the risk of AFib-related
ischemic strokes.

However, bleeding (65%) and the overall safety profile of medication (62%) are leading
concerns when prescribing anticoagulation therapy. Additionally, three in five Neurologists
(62%) identify minimizing the risk of hemorrhagic stroke as a primary concern.

Four in five physicians (79%) believe too many patients underestimate the importance of
adhering to their prescribed therapy for reducing the risk of AFib-related ischemic stroke.

Risk of bleeding is the largest compliance barrier for Electrophysiologists (35%) and
Cardiologists (31%), while monitoring anti-coagulation effect is the most common barrier for
Neurologists (53%) and General Practitioners (36%).
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Executive Summary
Physicians (Cont’d.)
Physicians typically initiate conversations about the increased risk of AFib-related
stroke and treatment. They see a variety of barriers to educating patients about their
condition and seek support as they try to provide counsel.

Nine in every ten conversations (90%) between physicians and patients about increased risk of
AFib-related stroke and available treatments are initiated by physicians.

Other than personally discussing their situation with patients (87% discuss condition, 82% to
discuss treatment), there are no other widely used methods of patient education. Written
materials are used by one-half of physicians (52%) for information on the condition, and less
than one-half use them to educate about treatment options (45%).

In these discussions, the two most widely perceived barriers to educating Atrial Fibrillation
patients is that they believe once their symptoms are being treated, the risk of AFib-related
stroke goes away (43%) and patients feeling that the risks outweigh the benefits for
medications reducing the risk of AFib-related stroke (41%).

More than four in five physicians (83%) wish they had more information/educational materials
to share with their Atrial Fibrillation patients that discuss stroke risk associated with Atrial
Fibrillation.

In terms of specific materials, three in four physicians (76%) would like to have educational
brochures, pamphlets, or posters as resources to discuss stroke risk and treatment options
with their Atrial Fibrillation patients and caregivers, and more than two in five (44%) would like
web-based illustrations/animation.
Further, many physicians believe their colleagues are not doing enough to educate
patients about the risk of ischemic stroke in Atrial Fibrillation patients and urge their
peers to be mindful of the risk.

Three in four physicians (76%) regularly advise or remind their colleagues of the increased risk
for ischemic stroke among Atrial Fibrillation patients.

Two in three physicians (67%) feel many of their colleagues don't do enough to educate Atrial
Fibrillation patients about the risks of AFib-related ischemic strokes.
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Executive Summary
Atrial Fibrillation Patients
The impact of Atrial Fibrillation and related stroke can be devastating, with a majority
of survivors not even diagnosed prior to experiencing a stroke. Survivors wish they
had known more about stroke, as there is a widely held belief that experiencing a
stroke was worse than they could have imagined.

Three in five survivors (61%) did not know they suffered from Atrial Fibrillation prior to
experiencing a stroke.

Only one-third of stroke survivors who spoke with their physician about Atrial Fibrillation (35%)
discussed the impact of AFib-related stroke on everyday life.

Five in six stroke survivors (83%) wish they had known more about reducing the risk of an
AFib-related stroke prior to experiencing a stroke.

More than three in four stroke survivors (77%) indicate their life has not been the same since
experiencing an AFib-related stroke, and nearly three in four (73%) agree that experiencing a
stroke was worse than they had imagined.

Although two-fifths of survivors don’t go out as much since having a stroke (40%) and have
experienced depression (39%), three in five (60%) have attempted to live healthier lives.
Meanwhile, an alarming percentage of Atrial Fibrillation-only patients are not aware
of nor understand the differences between different types of stroke, and couldn’t
recognize the symptoms if one were to occur.

Less than one-half of Atrial Fibrillation-only patients (45%) are aware there are different stroke
types, and less than two-fifths (38%) are familiar with ischemic stroke. When provided with a
description, less then three in ten (28%) identified an obstruction within a blood vessel
supplying blood to the brain as ischemic stroke.

One-third of Atrial Fibrillation-only patients (32%) don’t believe they would be able to describe
the most common symptoms of stroke.
Most patients will eventually have a discussion with their physician about the
increased risk of ischemic stroke, however many important issues are left out of
conversation.

More than four in five Atrial Fibrillation patients (85%) have had a discussion with their
physician about the increased risk of stroke due to Atrial Fibrillation.

However, more than one-third of patients (36%) were not initially informed by their physician
that they may be at an increased risk of stroke.

Additionally, only two-thirds of AFib-only patients (65%) and less than one-half of survivors
(48%) have discussed the risk of AFib-related stroke with and without medication.

On average, patients who have discussed the issue with their patients indicate they initiate the
conversation 47% of the time – far different than reported by physicians (10%).
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Executive Summary
Atrial Fibrillation Patients (Cont’d.)
Atrial Fibrillation patients are eager for information about how to reduce their
personal risk of ischemic stroke. Despite this eagerness, many are not receiving
materials that could provide further education.

Five in six AFib-only patients (87%) will seek to find out everything they can about Atrial
Fibrillation and reducing their risk of AFib-related stroke.

More than four in five of all Atrial Fibrillation patients (82%) would be interested in learning
more about how to reduce their risk of AFib-related ischemic stroke.

Less than one-half of patients (48%) indicate their physician gave them written materials to
read regarding Atrial Fibrillation and the increased risk of AFib-related stroke.

Four in five AFib-only patients (80%) would like to have more information to take charge of
their Atrial Fibrillation and learn about reducing the risk of AFib-related stroke.
There are a wide range of important facts about Atrial Fibrillation-related stroke that
are unknown to a relatively high percentage of patients.

More than two in three Atrial Fibrillation patients (68%) were not previously aware that AFibrelated strokes are nearly twice as likely to be fatal or disabling as non-AFib-related strokes.

More than one-third of Atrial Fibrillation patients (36%) were not previously aware that you can
have 5 times greater risk for stroke if you are living with untreated Atrial Fibrillation.

Less than three in ten Atrial Fibrillation patients (27%) believed women had a higher risk of
Atrial Fibrillation-related stroke than men.
Despite a lack of information, a high percentage of patients have taken medication
and are compliant.

Six in seven patients who have discussed Atrial Fibrillation-related stroke with their physician
(87%) have taken medication to reduce their risk of stroke. Oral anticoagulants (72%) are most
commonly prescribed.

More than nine in ten patients who have taken medication (92%) regularly take their prescribed
treatment to reduce their risk of AFib-related stroke.

Two in five patients who discussed an increased stroke risk with physicians (39%) named
using a treatment that reduces the risk of a stroke caused by a blood clot in the brain to be the
most important quality, and three in five (59%) named it as one of their two most important
qualities.

Motor limitations are of primary concern in experiencing a stroke – one-third of patients (32%),
including two-fifths of AFib-only patients (40%), indicated losing the ability to move, talk, or
some other physical function concerns them most about having a stroke.
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Executive Summary
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Caregivers
Caregivers tend to provide assistance and care for stroke survivors who are in
“worse shape” than the average survivor.

On average, caregivers are providing assistance to survivors during 47% of their everyday
activities. Survivors that were interviewed had indicated they required assistance 12% of the
time, with three-fifths (61%) not requiring any assistance at all.

One in seven caregivers (14%) provide assistance 100% of the time survivors are doing
everyday activities, and one in two (50%) provide assistance at least half of the time survivors
are doing everyday activities.

The survivors in their care are more likely to have experienced a range of limitations:

92% experienced motor limitations within their first 6 months, compared to 81% of the
overall survivor population

94% of these survivors still experience motor limitations, compared to 80% of
the overall population

81% experienced cognitive limitations within their first 6 months, compared to 52% of
the overall survivor population

69% experienced sensory limitations within their first 6 months, compared to 54% of
the overall survivor population

43% experienced vision limitations within their first 6 months, compared to 31% of the
overall survivor population
This situation places a crushing burden on caregivers which impacts personal time,
relationships and emotions.

More than nine in ten caregivers (92%) feel they have a lot more responsibilities since
becoming a caregiver.

Nine in ten caregivers (91%) agree that their lives have not been the same since the person in
their care experienced an AFib-related stroke.

Six in seven caregivers (86%) couldn’t have imagined the amount of work it takes to care for a
stroke survivor.

Two in three caregivers (66%) don’t have as much time to do activities or hobbies that bring
them joy.

Three in five caregivers (60%) feel like they have more to do than they can handle.

More than two in three caregivers (68%) feel their relationship is different with their patient
since they suffered a stroke.

Nearly three in five caregivers (56%) feel more socially isolated.
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Executive Summary
Caregivers (Cont’d.)
Despite this burden, caregivers are dedicated to assisting the survivor in their care
and stay informed about Atrial Fibrillation and associated stroke risks, including
being an active participant in the survivor’s medical care. Most of these caregivers
are knowledgeable about ischemic stroke.

Nearly nine in ten caregivers (86%) indicated they were aware there were different types of
strokes.

Three in four caregivers (76%) are familiar with ischemic stroke, and two-fifths are very
familiar. Additionally, more than two in three caregivers (68%) were able to correctly identify an
ischemic stroke as being caused by an obstruction within a blood vessel supplying blood to the
brain.

Four in five caregivers (82%) accompany the survivor in their care to doctor’s appointments
always or most of the time.

More than three in four caregivers who attend doctor visits (78%) indicate the survivor’s
physician has directly discussed Atrial Fibrillation and the increased risk of stroke, and more
than three-fifths of caregivers (62%) have themselves discussed the increased risk of stroke
due to Atrial Fibrillation with the physician.

On average, caregivers indicated more than three in four (78%) conversations about
treatments to reduce the risk of Atrial Fibrillation related stroke are initiated by the physician.
This is more in line with what physicians have reported (90% of conversations) compared to
Atrial Fibrillation patients (53%).
A majority of caregivers have not received written information from physicians and
have been forced to search for it on their own. This has led to most caregivers
reporting that they would have liked to had more information.

After the survivor in their care was diagnosed with Atrial Fibrillation, four in five caregivers
(81%) tried to find out everything they could about it and reducing AFib-related stroke risk.

Less than two in five caregivers who attend doctor visits (38%) indicate physicians have given
written materials to read regarding Atrial Fibrillation or the increased risk of AFib-related stroke.

Seven in ten caregivers (69%) have personally sought out information related to Atrial
Fibrillation or AFib-related strokes.


Of caregivers who have researched Atrial Fibrillation, more than three-quarters (77%)
obtained information from an association or website related specifically to heart
conditions or AFib-related stroke and a slight majority (54%) looked at written
materials.
Nine in ten caregivers (89%) would have liked to have had more information about Atrial
Fibrillation and learned more about AFib-related stroke.
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Executive Summary
Caregivers (Cont’d.)
Beyond information, many caregivers indicate they could benefit from various types
of other assistance.

Five in six caregivers (83%) wish they had more support and information to take care of the
survivor in their care.

Seven out of ten caregivers (70%) would find physical help useful in helping provide care.

More than three in five caregivers would find home modifications (63%), financial assistance
(63%) and respite care (62%) useful in helping provide care.
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Detailed Findings: Physicians
Detailed Findings: Physicians
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Detailed Findings: Physicians
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Electrophysiologists and Cardiologists see far more AFib
patients than Neurologists and General Practitioners.

On average, physicians see a total of 160 Atrial Fibrillation patients each
year. This ranges from 98 patients per year among Neurologists to 215
patients seen by the average Electrophysiologist.

More than two-fifths of physicians (42%) see 200 or more Atrial Fibrillation
patients each year.

Seven in ten Electrophysiologists (73%) see 200 or more Atrial Fibrillation
patients each year.

More than nine in ten Neurologists (92%) see less than 200 Atrial
Fibrillation patients each year.
Number of Atrial Fibrillation Patients See Per Year
Base: Total Respondents (n=507)
Specialty
200 or
more,
42%
Under 100,
32%
100 To 199,
26%
Cardiologist
Electrophysiologist
Neurologist
PCP/
Internal/
Family
(202)
(101)
(53)
(151)
%
C
%
E
%
N
%
P
Under 100
18 E
9
60 CE
57 CE
100 to 199
29 E
18
32 E
26
200 or more
53 NP
73 CNP
8
17
Mean
187 NP
215 CNP
98
108
Total
Respondents
Mean: 160
1a. In an average 12 month time period, how many patients with Atrial Fibrillation (AFib) do you see?
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Detailed Findings: Physicians
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The majority of AFib patients seen by Neurologists have a
history of stroke.

On average, one-fifth of Atrial Fibrillation patients seen by physicians
(20%) have a history of stroke.

More than one-half of patients seen by Neurologists (53%) have a history
of stroke.

One-fifths of patients seen by General Practitioners (21%) have a history of
stroke.

One in seven patients seen by Cardiologists (15%) have a history of
stroke.

One in ten patients seen by Electrophysiologists (10%) have a history of
stroke, and one-half of EPs (51%) indicate less than 10% of their Atrial
Fibrillation patients have a history of stroke.
Percentage of Atrial Fibrillation Patients With History of Stroke
Base: Total Respondents (n=507)
Specialty
25 to 100
percent,
28%
1 to 9
percent,
28%
10 to 24
percent,
44%
PCP/
CardioElectroNeuro- Internal/
logist physiologist logist
Family
Total
Respondents
(202)
(101)
(53)
(151)
%
C
%
E
%
N
%
P
1% to 9%
33 NP
51 CNP
-
17
10% to 24%
50 N
43 N
21
44
25% to 100%
18 E
6
79 CEP 39 CE
Mean
15
10
53
N
21
Mean: 20%
1b. And what percentage of your AFib patients have had a history of stroke?
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Detailed Findings: Physicians
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Oral anticoagulants are universally prescribed to reduce the
risk of stroke in Atrial Fibrillation patients.

Physicians universally prescribe oral anticoagulants to Atrial Fibrillation
patients to reduce the risk of stroke (100%).

Four-fifths of physicians (79%) prescribe antiplatelets to Atrial Fibrillation
patients to reduce the risk of stroke.
Types of Oral Treatments Prescribe To Atrial Fibrillation Patients
to Reduce Risk of Stroke
Base: Total Respondents (n=507)
Oral anticoagulant
100
Antiplatelet
79
0
10
20
30
40
50
60
70
80
90
100
2. In terms of reducing the risk of stroke in Atrial Fibrillation, what types of oral treatment options do you currently prescribe to your at-risk patients?
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Detailed Findings: Physicians
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Oral anticoagulants are prescribed in the vast majority of
cases when treating at-risk patients with Atrial Fibrillation.

Four-fifths of oral treatment prescriptions (80%) made by physicians to atrisk patients with Atrial Fibrillation are oral anticoagulants.

Nearly nine in ten oral treatment prescriptions (88%) made by
Electrophysiologists to at-risk patients with Atrial Fibrillation are oral
anticoagulants.

More than one-quarter of oral treatment prescriptions (27%) made by
General Practitioners to at-risk patients with Atrial Fibrillation are
antiplatelets.
Oral Treatment Share of Prescription
Base: Total Respondents (n=507)
Specialty
Antiplatelet,
20%
Oral anticoagulant,
80%
Cardiologist
Total
Respondents
ElectroNeurophysiologist logist
PCP/
Internal/
Family
(202)
(101)
(53)
(151)
%
C
%
E
%
N
%
P
Oral
anticoagulant
82 P
88 P
78
73
Antiplatelet
17
12
22
27 CE
3. What percentage of the time do you prescribe each of the following oral treatment options to your at-risk
patients with Atrial Fibrillation to reduce their risk of stroke?
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Detailed Findings: Physicians
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Reducing the risk of AFib-related ischemic stroke is almost
always the primary objective when physicians prescribe
anticoagulation therapy.

More than four in five physicians (85%) indicate their primary objective
when prescribing anticoagulation therapy to patients with Atrial Fibrillation
is to reduce the risk of AFib-related ischemic strokes.

Seven percent of physicians indicate their primary objective when
prescribing anticoagulation therapy to patients with Atrial Fibrillation is the
overall safety profile of the medication.

Three percent of physicians indicate their primary objective when
prescribing anticoagulation therapy to patients with Atrial Fibrillation is to
minimize potential adverse effects.

Three percent of physicians indicate their primary objective when
prescribing anticoagulation therapy to patients with Atrial Fibrillation is to
minimize the risk of hemorrhagic strokes.
Primary Objective When Prescribing Anticoagulation Therapy
Base: Total Respondents (n=507)
To minimize potential
adverse effects, 3%
To minimize the risk of
hemorrhagic strokes, 3%
Other, 2%
Overall safety profile of
the medication, 7%
To reduce the risk
of AFib-related
ischemic strokes,
85%
4. Of the following options, which best describes your primary objective when prescribing anticoagulation therapy for
patients with Atrial Fibrillation?
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Detailed Findings: Physicians
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Bleeding and the overall safety profile are leading concerns
when prescribing anticoagulation therapy.

A patient’s bleeding risk is of primary concern to two in three physicians
when prescribing anticoagulation therapy (65%) and it is the greatest
concern to one in four physicians (25%).

The overall safety profile of the medication is of primary concern to more
than three in five of physicians when prescribing anticoagulation therapy
(62%) and it is the greatest concern to more than one in four physicians
(27%).

Minimizing the risk of hemorrhagic strokes is of primary concern to one in
two physicians when prescribing anticoagulation therapy (50%) and it is
the greatest concern to one in seven physicians (14%).

Compliance is of primary concern to one in two physicians when
prescribing anticoagulation therapy (49%) and it is the greatest concern to
eight percent of physicians.
Concerns When Prescribing Anticoagulation Therapy
Base: Total Respondents (n=507)
Greatest
Additional
Patient's bleeding risk
25
40
Overall safety profile of the medication
27
35
Minimizing the risk of hemorrhagic strokes
14
Compliance
Potential Adverse Events
41
10
35
Cost
6
Reversibility of the anticoagulant effect
6
62
50
49
45
37
43
29
35
Food and drug interactions 0
28
29
Dosing schedule for the patient 1
26
27
Patient preference 2
18
20
Need for dual anti-platelet therapy 1
18
19
-
65
36
8
10
20
Total
30
40
50
60
70
80
5a.
When using anticoagulants to reduce the risk of stroke resultant from atrial fibrillation, what are
your primary concerns?
5b.
When using anticoagulants to reduce the risk of stroke resultant from atrial fibrillation, what do
you see as the greatest concern?
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Detailed Findings: Physicians
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Neurologists tend to have a broader range of concerns than
other physicians when prescribing anticoagulation therapy.

Three in five Neurologists (62%) indicate minimizing the risk of
hemorrhagic strokes is of primary concern when prescribing
anticoagulation therapy. This is a significantly higher percentage when
compared to Electrophysiologists (45%) and General Practitioners (46%),
and was also higher when compared to Cardiologists (52%).

One in two Neurologists (49%) indicate reversibility of the anticoagulant
effect is of primary concern when prescribing anticoagulation therapy. This
is a significantly higher percentage when compared to Electrophysiologists
(28%) and Cardiologists (34%), and was also higher when compared to
General Practitioners (35%).
Primary Concerns When Prescribing Anticoagulation Therapy
Base: Total Respondents (n=507)
Total Concerns
Total Respondents
Total
(507)
%
Cardiologist
(202)
%
Specialty
Electrophysio- Neurologist
logist
(101)
(53)
%
%
PCP/
Internal/
Family
(151)
%
C
E
N
P
Patient's bleeding risk
65
65
59
68
68
Overall safety profile of the medication
62
63
62
64
61
Minimizing the risk of hemorrhagic
strokes
50
52
45
62 EP
46
Compliance
49
48
41
53
56 E
Potential Adverse Events
45
43
35
55 E
52
Cost
43
39
48
40
47
Reversibility of the anticoagulant
effect
35
34
28
49 CE
35
Food and drug interactions
29
29
26
34
28
Dosing schedule for the patient
27
28
24
23
30
Patient preference
20
20
16
15
23
Need for dual anti-platelet therapy
19
23 P
24 P
11
13
5a.
When using anticoagulants to reduce the risk of stroke resultant from atrial fibrillation, what are
your primary concerns?
20
Detailed Findings: Physicians
www. russellresearch.com
When presented with a case study for reducing the risk of
stroke in Atrial Fibrillation, an oral anticoagulant is selected
for treatment by a majority of physicians.

Based on the case study, nearly two in three physicians (64%) would
recommend an oral anticoagulant for reducing the patient’s risk of stroke in
Atrial Fibrillation.

Based on the case study, nearly one in seven physicians (13%) would
recommend a high-dose aspirin for reducing the patient’s risk of stroke in
Atrial Fibrillation.

Based on the case study, nearly one in seven physicians (13%) would
recommend a low-dose aspirin for reducing the patient’s risk of stroke in
Atrial Fibrillation.

Based on the case study, seven percent of physicians would recommend a
dual antiplatelet for reducing the patient’s risk of stroke in Atrial Fibrillation.
Case Study Treatment Recommendation
Base: Total Respondents (n=507)
A 67 year old woman with hypertension presents with recurrent
episodes of paroxysmal atrial fibrillation. She has no other past
medical history.
This patient has a CHADS2 score of 1 (hypertension) and CHA2DS2VASc
score of 3 (hypertension, woman, age >65)
Dual antiplatelet (low
dose Aspirin and other
antiplatelet), 7%
Dual antiplatelet therapy
(high dose Aspirin and
other antiplatelet), 3%
Aspirin (high
dose), 13%
Aspirin (low
dose), 13%
Oral
anticoagulant,
64%
6. Based on your experience, which of the following would you recommend for reducing this patient’s risk of stroke in atrial fibrillation?
21
Detailed Findings: Physicians
www. russellresearch.com
Physicians almost always initiate discussions about the
increased risk of AFib-related stroke and available
treatments.

Nine in every ten conversations (90%) between physicians and patients
about increased risk of AFib-related stroke and available treatments are
initiated by physicians.

One in every ten conversations (10%) between physicians and patients
about increased risk of AFib-related stroke and available treatments are
initiated by patients.
Treatment Conversation Initiation Percentage Share
Base: Total Respondents (n=507)
Initiated by
patient, 10%
Initiated by physician,
90%
7. Thinking about conversations you have had with your patients with Atrial Fibrillation about their increased risk of AFib-related stroke and
available treatments, what percentage of the time would you say conversations are initiated by you versus those initiated by patients?
22
Detailed Findings: Physicians
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Risk of bleeding and other adverse events are often viewed as the leading
barrier to initiating therapy.

A patient’s bleeding risk is the greatest barrier to three in ten physicians (31%) when initiating
therapy to reduce the risk of stroke in patients with Atrial Fibrillation, and is within the three
greatest concerns to more than one in two physicians (56%).

The risk of adverse events is the greatest barrier to nearly one in seven physicians (13%) when
initiating therapy to reduce the risk of stroke in patients with Atrial Fibrillation, and is within the
three greatest concerns to more than one in three physicians (35%).

Patient resistance is the greatest barrier to one in seven physicians (14%) when initiating therapy
to reduce the risk of stroke in patients with Atrial Fibrillation, and is within the three greatest
concerns to three in ten physicians (30%).

Affordability is the greatest barrier to one in ten physicians (10%) when initiating therapy to
reduce the risk of stroke in patients with Atrial Fibrillation, and is within the three greatest
concerns to one in three physicians (33%).
Three Greatest Barriers When Initiating Therapy To Reduce Risk Of Stroke
Base: Total Respondents (n=507)
Greatest
2nd Greatest
Patient risk of bleeding
3rd Greatest
31
Risk of adverse events
13
Affordability
12
10
Patient risk of falling
Routine lab work required for monitoring
6
6
15
6
10
9
7
13
3 4 4
Unsure of patient's bleed risk 2 3 5
Patient tolerability
3 3 4
Dietary restrictions 12 3
10
56
35
33
31
10
9
6
Drug-drug interactions 2 4
Time to counsel patients on medication risks and
benefits
9
12
14
Prior authorizations or managing insurance
coverage
10
14
5
Patient resistance
15
Total
30
25
20
11
10
10
6
Unsure of patient's stroke risk 2 3 1 6
Lack of patient education resources 2 2 3 6
Time to counsel patients on dietary restrictions 121 4
Lack of samples 111 3
-
10
20
30
40
50
60
8. From your experience, which of the following do you view as the greatest, second greatest and third greatest barriers when
initiating therapy to reduce the risk of stroke in patients with atrial fibrillation?
23
Detailed Findings: Physicians
www. russellresearch.com
The greatest barrier to initiating therapy often differs by
physician specialty.

Patient resistance is the greatest barrier to nearly three in ten
Electrophysiologists (28%), a significantly higher percentage when
compared to all other physician segments.

Patient risk of bleeding is the greatest barrier to more than two in five
Neurologists (43%), a significantly higher percentage when compared to
General Practitioners (26%) and Electrophysiologists (23%).

Routine lab work required for monitoring is the greatest barrier to one in
nine General Practitioners (11%), a significantly higher percentage when
compared to Cardiologists (5%) and Electrophysiologists (1%).
Greatest Barrier When Initiating Therapy To Reduce Risk Of Stroke
Base: Total Respondents (n=507)
Greatest Barrier
Total Respondents
Patient risk of bleeding
Patient resistance
Risk of adverse events
Affordability
Routine lab work required for monitoring
Prior authorizations or managing
insurance coverage
Patient risk of falling
Patient tolerability
Time to counsel patients on medication
risks and benefits
Drug-drug interactions
Unsure of patient's stroke risk
Unsure of patient's bleed risk
Lack of patient education resources
Dietary restrictions
Lack of samples
Time to counsel patients on dietary
restrictions
Total
(507)
%
Specialty
ElectroCardio- physio- Neurologist
logist
logist
(202)
(101)
(53)
%
%
%
PCP/
Internal/
Family
(151)
%
C
E
N
P
31
14
13
10
6
35 E
15 NP
10
11
5
23
28 CNP
11
17 NP
1
43 EP
2
21 C
4
6
26
8
15
7
11 CE
6
7
8
2
5
5
3
4
2
3
1
8
2
5
5
3
1
4
2
4
2
2
2
2
1
1
2
1
2
1
1
1
1
1
2
-
6 C
4
2
-
5 E
3
2
1
1
1
1
0
1
-
1
8. From your experience, which of the following do you view as the greatest, second greatest and third greatest barriers when
initiating therapy to reduce the risk of stroke in patients with atrial fibrillation?
24
Detailed Findings: Physicians
www. russellresearch.com
Electrophysiologists particularly see different barriers to
therapy initiation.

Patient resistance is one of the three greatest barriers to nearly one in two
Electrophysiologists (48%), a significantly higher percentage when
compared to all other physician segments.

Affordability is one of the three greatest barriers to nearly one in two
Electrophysiologists (47%), a significantly higher percentage when
compared to all other physician segments.

Separately, patient risk of falling is one of the three greatest barriers to
more than one in two Neurologists (53%), a significantly higher percentage
when compared to all other physician segments.
Three Greatest Barriers When Initiating Therapy To Reduce Risk Of Stroke
Base: Total Respondents (n=507)
Top Three Greatest Barriers
Total Respondents
Patient risk of bleeding
Risk of adverse events
Affordability
Patient risk of falling
Patient resistance
Routine lab work required for monitoring
Prior authorizations or managing
insurance coverage
Drug-drug interactions
Time to counsel patients on medication
risks and benefits
Unsure of patient's bleed risk
Patient tolerability
Dietary restrictions
Unsure of patient's stroke risk
Lack of patient education resources
Time to counsel patients on dietary
restrictions
Lack of samples
Other
Total
(507)
%
Specialty
ElectroCardio- physio- Neurologist
logist
logist
(202)
(101)
(53)
%
%
%
PCP/
Internal/
Family
(151)
%
C
E
N
P
56
35
33
31
30
25
54
32
35 N
35 E
33 NP
19
54
33
47 CNP
22
48 CNP
15
60
42
13
53 CEP
17
26
56
38
30 N
26
20
40 CE
20
22
22
11
21
13
12
7
17
16 E
11
8
18 C
8
11
10
10
6
6
6
10
13 E
7
4
7
8
4
4
5
8
19 EP
11
4
13 C
2
8
9
8
7
5
4
4
2
2
5
3
1
4
1
2
3 P
2
-
3
-
8. From your experience, which of the following do you view as the greatest, second greatest and third greatest barriers when
initiating therapy to reduce the risk of stroke in patients with atrial fibrillation?
25
Detailed Findings: Physicians
www. russellresearch.com
Monitoring anticoagulation effect and risk of bleeding are
the largest compliance barriers, though it varies by
physician specialty.

Monitoring anticoagulation effect is the greatest barrier to patient
compliance for nearly three in ten physicians (28%), including more than
one in two Neurologists (53%) and more than one in three General
Practitioners (36%).

Patient concern about the risk of bleeding is the greatest barrier to patient
compliance for one in four physicians (26%), including more than one in
three Electrophysiologists (35%) and three in ten Cardiologists (31%).

Patient concern about cost is the greatest barrier to patient compliance for
one in six physicians (17%), including one in five Electrophysiologists
(21%) and Cardiologists (20%), and one in six General Practitioners
(16%). However, it is the greatest barrier to only two percent of
Neurologists.
Greatest Barrier to Patient Compliance
Base: Total Respondents (n=507)
Monitoring
anticoagulation effect
28
Total Respondents
Patients are concerned
about the risk of bleeding
26
Patients are concerned
about cost
17
Patient belief that they
are at low-risk for stroke
due to atrial fibrillation
12
Patients experiencing
side effects due to the
medication
8
Dietary restrictions
4
Patients are more
concerned about AFib
symptom management
3
Number of daily doses
1
0
10
20
30
Specialty
ElectroPCP/
Cardio- physio- Neuro- Internal
logist logist logist Family
(202)
(101)
(53)
(151)
%
%
%
%
C
E
N
P
Monitoring anticoagulation effect
22
14
53 CEP 36 CE
Patients are concerned
about the risk of bleeding
31 P
35 P
23
14
Patients are concerned
about cost
20 N
21 N
2
16 N
Patient belief that they
are at low-risk for stroke
due to atrial fibrillation
10
18
13
12
Patients experiencing
side effects due to the
medication
8
6
8
11
Dietary restrictions
Patients are more
concerned about AFib
symptom management
4
3
-
5
3
2
-
5
Number of daily doses
1
2
-
2
40
9. From your experience, what do you see as the greatest barrier to patient compliance in treatment therapy to reduce the risk of ischemic stroke
due to AFib?
26
Detailed Findings: Physicians
www. russellresearch.com
A majority of AFib patients don’t usually understand their
risk of ischemic stroke.

When asked to best describe the typical patient’s understanding of how
Atrial Fibrillation increases their risk of ischemic stroke, more than one in
two physicians (55%) indicate their average AFib patient does not usually
understand their risk.

One in three physicians (34%) indicate their average AFib patient is
actively looking for ways to reduce their risk of ischemic stroke.

One in five physicians (19%) indicate their typical AFib patient is very
knowledgeable about their risk of ischemic stroke.

Two in three Electrophysiologists (65%) indicate their average AFib patient
does not usually understand their risk of ischemic stroke.

Two in five Neurologists (43%) and General Practitioners (40%) indicate
their average AFib patient is actively looking for ways to reduce their risk of
ischemic stroke.

One in four Cardiologists (25%) indicate their typical AFib patient is very
knowledgeable about their risk of ischemic stroke.
Level of Patient Understanding Regarding Increased Risk of
Ischemic Stroke Due to Atrial Fibrillation
Base: Total Respondents (n=507)
Specialty
Average AFib
patients do not
usually understand
their risk of ischemic
stroke due to AFib
55
(202)
(101)
(53)
(151)
%
C
%
E
%
N
%
P
Average AFib
patients do not
usually understand
their risk of ischemic
stroke due to AFib
51
65 C
49
56
Average AFib
patients are actively
looking for ways to
reduce their risk of
ischemic stroke due
to AFib
32
26
43 E
40 E
Typical AFib patients
are very knowledgeable about their risk
of ischemic stroke
due to AFib
25 EP
13
17
15
Total Respondents
Average AFib
patients are actively
looking for ways to
reduce their risk of
ischemic stroke due
to AFib
Typical AFib
patients are very
knowledgeable
about their risk of
ischemic stroke due
to AFib
ElectroPCP/
Cardio- physico Neuro- Internal/
logist -logist logist Family
34
19
0 10 20 30 40 50 60
10. Overall, which of the following statements accurately describes your typical patient’s understanding of how Atrial Fibrillation
increases their risk of ischemic stroke?
27
Detailed Findings: Physicians
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Physicians believe a wide range of treatment option
considerations are deemed important by Atrial Fibrillation
patients.

Virtually all physicians indicate patients find it important to reduce the risk
of stroke due to atrial fibrillation (96%).

More than nine in ten physicians indicate patients consider minimizing the
risk of hemorrhagic stroke to be important (93%).

More than nine in ten physicians indicate patients consider being able to
follow the treatment or dosing regimens to be important (92%).

More than nine in ten physicians indicate patients consider being able to
afford their medication to be important (92%).

More than nine in ten physicians indicate patients consider understanding
Atrial Fibrillation and the associated risk of stroke to be important (92%).

Nine in ten physicians indicate patients consider reducing the symptoms of
Atrial Fibrillation to be important (90%).
Patient Consideration Importance
Base: Total Respondents (n=507)
Reducing the risk of stroke due to Atrial
Fibrillation
96
Minimizing the risk of hemorrhagic stroke
93
Being able to follow the treatment or dosing
regimens
92
Being able to afford their medication
92
Understanding Atrial Fibrillation and the
associated risk of stroke
92
Reducing the symptoms of Atrial Fibrillation
90
Learning about treatment options that may
reduce their risk of AFib-related ischemic
stroke
89
Learning about ways to manage Atrial
Fibrillation
Very Important/
Important
84
70
80
90
100
11. How important do you think the following considerations are for your patients with Atrial Fibrillation?
28
Detailed Findings: Physicians
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Direct discussion is the most universal method used to
educate Atrial Fibrillation patients about increased risk of
AFib-related stroke.

Nearly nine in ten physicians (87%) educate AFib patients about their
condition by personally discussing the situation with them directly.

One in two physicians (52%) educate AFib patients about their condition
by giving them written material to read.

Two in five physicians (40%) educate AFib patients about their condition
by having a nurse, educator, or other professional in their office discuss
their situation with them.

One in five physicians (21%) educate AFib patients about their condition
by directing them to associations or websites related specifically to heart
conditions or AFib-related stroke.
Ways Attempt To Educate Patients With AFib About Specifics Of
Condition & Increased Risk Of Atrial Fibrillation-Related Stroke
Base: Total Respondents (n=507)
You personally discuss their situation with them
directly
87
Give them written material to read
52
Have a nurse, educator, or other professional in
my office discuss their situation with them
40
Direct them to associations or websites related
specifically to heart conditions or AFib-related
stroke
21
You give them educational CDs or DVDs
7
Direct them to a pharmaceutical company
website with information on medications to
reduce risk of AFib-related stroke
7
Direct them to a pharmaceutical company
website on the condition
7
You direct them to download an app for a mobile
phone, tablet computer or other device
6
0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90 100
12. In which, if any, of the following ways do you try to educate your patients with Atrial Fibrillation about the specifics of their condition and their
increased risk of AFib-related stroke?
29
Detailed Findings: Physicians
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The belief that risk goes away, risks of treatment outweigh benefits, and
difficulty in understanding the situation are all common barriers to patient
education.

More than one in five physicians (22%) believe the primary barrier to educating Atrial Fibrillation
patients is the feeling that the risks outweigh the benefits for medications reducing the risk of AFibrelated stroke, and two in five (41%) view it as a barrier overall.

One in five physicians (22%) believe the primary barrier to educating Atrial Fibrillation patients is
they think that once their symptoms are being treated, the risk of AFib-related stroke goes away,
and more than two in five (43%) view it as a barrier overall.

One in six physicians (17%) believe the primary barrier to educating Atrial Fibrillation patients is
they have trouble understanding what physicians are trying to explain to them, and two in five
(40%) view it as a barrier overall.
Barriers To Educating Patients About Condition and Increased
Risk for AFib-related stroke
Base: Total Respondents (n=507)
Primary
Additional
Total
43
They think that once their symptoms are being
treated, the risk of AFib-related stroke goes away
20
22
They feel the risks outweigh the benefits for
medications reducing the risk of AFib-related stroke
22
19
They have trouble understanding what I am trying
to explain to them (due to things such as age,…
17
They don't really believe that their condition is
serious
12
Don't have enough time to fully discuss the issues
with them
12
Don't have nurses, educators, or other
professionals in my office available to discuss… 6
They don't believe that Atrial Fibrillation can cause
stroke
3
Don't have any good websites to refer the patient to
4 5
40
27
39
18
11
3 6
-
23
13
Don't have literature to give them
41
30
18
15
10
8
10
20
30
40
50
13a. What do you see as barriers in terms of trying to educate your patients with Atrial Fibrillation about the specifics of their
condition and their increased risk of AFib-related stroke?
13b. And what do you see as the primary barrier in terms of trying to educate your patients with Atrial Fibrillation about the specifics
of their condition and their increased risk of AFib-related stroke?
30
Detailed Findings: Physicians
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Patient discussion and to a lesser extent, giving written
materials, are the most common methods used to educate
patients about treatment options.

More than four in five physicians (82%) attempt to educate AFib patients
about treatment options by personally discussing the situation with them
directly.

More than two in five physicians (45%) attempt to educate AFib patients
about treatment options by giving them written material to read.

More than one in three physicians (36%) attempt to educate AFib patients
about treatment options by having a nurse, educator, or other professional
in their office discussion their situation with them.

One in five physicians (20%) attempt to educate AFib patients about
treatment options by directing them to associations or websites related
specifically to heart conditions or AFib-related stroke.
Ways Attempt To Educate Patients With Atrial Fibrillation About
Treatment Options
Base: Total Respondents (n=507)
Personally discuss the treatment options with them
82
Give them written material to read
45
Have a nurse, educator, or other professional in
my office discuss the treatment options with them
36
Direct them to associations or websites related
specifically to heart conditions or AFib-related
stroke
Direct them to a pharmaceutical company website
with information on medications to reduce risk of
AFib-related stroke
20
7
Direct them to a pharmaceutical company website
on the condition
7
Give them educational CDs or DVDs
7
Direct them to download an app for a mobile
phone, tablet computer or other device
6
0
10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90 100
14. In which, if any, of the following ways do you try to educate your patients with Atrial Fibrillation about treatment options to reduce the risk of
AFib-related stroke?
31
Detailed Findings: Physicians
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Difficulty in understanding key issues, believing risks of treatment outweigh
benefits of medication, and the belief that risk goes away once treated are all
common barriers to patient education about their potential treatment options
to reduce the risk of AFib-related stroke.

One in five physicians (21%) believe the primary barrier to educating Atrial Fibrillation patients
about treatment options is the feeling that the risks outweigh the benefits for medications reducing
the risk of AFib-related stroke, and nearly two in five (37%) view it as a barrier overall.

One in five physicians (19%) believe the primary barrier to educating Atrial Fibrillation patients
about treatment options is they have trouble understanding what physicians are trying to explain to
them, and two in five (39%) view it as a barrier overall.

Nearly one in six physicians (16%) believe the primary barrier to educating Atrial Fibrillation
patients about treatment options is they think that once their symptoms are being treated, the risk
of AFib-related stroke goes away, and more than one in three (36%) view it as a barrier overall.
Barriers To Educating Patients About Treatment Options
Base: Total Respondents (n=507)
Primary
Additional
They have trouble understanding what I am trying to
explain to them (due to things such as age,
cognitive issues, etc.)
19
20
They feel the risks outweigh the benefits for
medications reducing the risk of AFib-related stroke
21
16
They think that once their symptoms are being
treated, the risk of AFib-related stroke goes away
16
They don't really believe that their AFib is serious
and warrants medication
13
Don't have enough time to fully discuss the
treatment options with them
14
6
13
Don't have nurses, educators, or other professionals
in my office available to discuss the treatment
options with them
7
9
Don't have any good websites to refer the patient to
4 4
8
-
37
36
18
They don't believe that Atrial Fibrillation can cause
an ischemic stroke
Don't have literature to give them 2 6
39
20
12
Total
31
26
18
16
8
10
20
30
40
50
15a. What do you see as barriers in terms of trying to educate your patients with Atrial Fibrillation about treatment options to reduce
the risk of AFib-related ischemic stroke?
15b. And what do you see as the primary barrier in terms of trying to educate your patients with Atrial Fibrillation about treatments
options to reduce the risk of ischemic stroke?
32
Detailed Findings: Physicians
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The vast majority of physicians would like to have
educational materials to discuss stroke risk and treatment
options with patients.

Three in four physicians (76%) would like to have educational brochures,
pamphlets, or posters as resources to discuss stroke risk and treatment
options with their Atrial Fibrillation patients and caregivers.

More than two in five physicians (44%) would like to have web-based
illustrations or animations as resources to discuss stroke risk and
treatment options with their Atrial Fibrillation patients and caregivers.

One in three physicians (33%) would like to have interactive videos as a
resource to discuss stroke risk and treatment options with their Atrial
Fibrillation patients and caregivers.

One in four physicians (25%) would like to have on-demand FAQs as a
resource to discuss stroke risk and treatment options with their Atrial
Fibrillation patients and caregivers.
Resources Would Like At Disposal To Discuss Stroke Risk and
Treatment Options With Patients
Base: Total Respondents (n=507)
Educational
brochures/pamphlets/posters
76
Web-based illustrations/animations
44
Interactive videos
33
On-demand FAQs
25
0
10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90 100
16. What resources would you like to have to discuss stroke risk and treatment options with your Atrial Fibrillation patients/caregivers?
33
Detailed Findings: Physicians
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Physicians see devastating outcomes from ischemic stroke and see Atrial
Fibrillation patients underestimate or live in denial about their risk. Further,
many physicians believe their colleagues are not doing enough to educate
about these risks, and would like more information themselves.

Virtually all physicians (97%) agree that AFib-related ischemic stroke can have devastating outcomes.

Nine in ten physicians (90%) agree that many Atrial Fibrillation patients underestimate the impact an
AFib-related stroke could have on their everyday lives.

More than four in five physicians (83%) wish they had more information/educational materials to share
with their Atrial Fibrillation patients that discuss stroke risk associated with Atrial Fibrillation.

Four in five physicians (79%) believe many AFib patients are in denial about their risk of experiencing
an ischemic stroke and four in five (79%) believe too many underestimate the importance of adhering
to their prescribed therapy for reducing the risk of AFib-related ischemic stroke.

Three in four physicians (76%) regularly advise or remind their colleagues of the increased risk for
ischemic stroke among Atrial Fibrillation patients, and two in three (67%) feel many of their colleagues
don't do enough to educate Atrial Fibrillation patients about the risks of AFib-related ischemic stroke.
Atrial Fibrillation Statement Agreement
Base: Total Respondents (n=507)
AFib-related ischemic stroke can have devastating outcomes to
my patients/caregivers
97
I think anticoagulants are effective stroke risk reduction
treatments for the appropriate atrial fibrillation patient
97
I believe AFib-related ischemic stroke can be as debilitating as
a hemorrhagic stroke
95
I believe that AFib-related ischemic stroke is more common
than hemorrhagic stroke
94
Many Atrial Fibrillation patients underestimate the impact an
AFib-related stroke could have on their everyday lives
90
I wish I had more information/educational materials to share
with my Atrial Fibrillation patients that discuss risks/ benefits of
treatment options to reduce the risk of stroke in Atrial Fibrillation
84
I wish I had more information/educational materials to share
with my Atrial Fibrillation patients that discuss stroke risk
associated with Atrial Fibrillation
83
I believe many Atrial Fibrillation patients are in denial about
their risk of experiencing an ischemic stroke
79
I have too many Atrial Fibrillation patients who underestimate
the importance of adhering to their prescribed therapy for
reducing the risk of AFib-related ischemic stroke
79
I regularly advise or remind my colleagues of the increased risk
for ischemic stroke among Atrial Fibrillation patients
76
I feel many of my colleagues don't do enough to educate Atrial
Fibrillation patients about the risks of AFib-related ischemic
stroke
67
60
70
Agree Strongly/Somewhat
80
90
100
17. How much do you agree or disagree with each of the following statements in terms of treatment of Atrial Fibrillation?
34
Detailed Findings: Physicians
www. russellresearch.com
Physician Profile
Base: Total Respondents (n=507)
Total Respondents
Total
(507)
%
Cardiologist
(202)
%
Specialty
Electrophysico- Neurologist
logist
(101)
(53)
%
%
PCP/
Internal/
Family
(151)
%
Male
Female
84
16
91 NP
9
89 NP
11
74
26 CE
75
25 CE
Mean Age
47
48
47
45
46
30
-
-
-
100
7
7
16
40
20
10
100
-
100
-
100
23
23
55
-
Years In Practice
Less than 1 to 9 years
10 to 19 years
20 or more years
33
37
30
33
33
34
36
35
30
45 P
30
25
25
47 CN
28
Mean # AFib Patients Treat
Mean % of Time In Clinical Practice
135
94
179 ENP 118
94
92
91
92
105
97 CEN
Board-certified
Board-eligible
97
3
98 N
2
97
3
91
9 CP
97 N
3
Mean Patient Age
62
63 P
63 P
62
60
Primary Work Location
Private practice
Hospital
Skilled nursing facility; LTAC
Other
64
33
1
2
63 E
36 P
1
-
41
51 CP
2
5 C
49
49 P
2
85 CEN
12
3 C
Primary Care/Internal Medicine/Family
Practice (net)
Primary care physician
Internal medicine
Family practice
Cardiologist
Electrophysiologist
Neurologist
Stroke Center Affiliation
Joint Commission certified
comprehensive stroke center
Joint Commission certified primary
stroke center
CARF - certified stroke center
None of the above
49
-
-
49
-
42
-
-
42
-
4
17
-
-
4
17
-
35
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Detailed Findings: Patients
Detailed Findings: Patients
36
Detailed Findings: Patients
www. russellresearch.com
Ischemic strokes are most common and a considerable
percentage of survivors experience multiple strokes.

A slight majority of survivors (53%) have experienced an ischemic stroke.

One in six caregivers (16%) indicate the person in their care has
experienced a hemorrhagic stroke.

More than one in three survivors (35%) have experienced a Transient
Ischemic Attack (TIA).

Nearly two in five survivors (37%) have experienced multiple strokes.
Type & Number of Strokes Experienced
Base: Total Stroke Survivors (n=251)
Ischemic
53
Transient Ischemic
Attack or TIA
35
Hemorrhagic
16
Combination of
Hemorrhagic and
Ischemic
8
Don't know
9
3 or more
strokes,
18%
2 strokes,
19%
1 stroke,
63%
Mean: 2
0 10 20 30 40 50 60
E. What type of stroke did you experience?
F. In total, how many strokes have you experienced?
37
Detailed Findings: Patients
www. russellresearch.com
Most survivors experienced a stroke less than 5 years ago.

Seven in ten survivors (69%) experienced their most recent stroke less
than 5 years ago.

One in seven survivors (14%) experienced their most recent stroke less
than 1 year ago.
How Long Ago Most Recent Stroke Took Place
Base: Total Stroke Survivors (n=251)
Less than 6
months ago, 8%
6 months to 11
months ago, 6%
5 or more
years ago,
31%
1 to 2
years ago,
26%
3 to 4
years ago,
28%
Mean: 3.6 years
G. How long ago did your most recent stroke take place?
38
Detailed Findings: Patients
www. russellresearch.com
While a majority of survivors don’t require assistance, those
who do usually need it for activities outside of the home.

Two in five survivors (39%) require assistance in everyday activities.

One in two survivors who require assistance (51%) need assistance with
driving.

One in two survivors who require assistance (49%) need assistance with
shopping.

Two in five survivors who require assistance (41%) need assistance with
moving/mobility.

More than one in three survivors who require assistance (36%) need
assistance with taking medication.
Time And Activities Where Assistance Is Required
Base: Total Stroke Survivors (n=251)
Base: Total Stroke Survivors Needing Assistance (n=99)
Driving
51
Shopping
49
Moving/mobility
41
Taking medication
20 or more
percent, 22%
36
Dressing
33
Bathing
1 to 19
percent,
18%
0 percent,
61%
Mean: 12%
31
Grooming
21
Feeding
15
Toileting
15
Transferring (e.g. going
from bed to chair)
14
Housekeping/laundry/pr
eparing meals
5
0
H.
10
20
30
40
50
60
70
When it comes to everyday activities (such as bathing, dressing, or toileting), keeping in mind you may need more help in some
areas, on average what percentage of the time do you need assistance?
I. For what type(s) of everyday activities do you need assistance at least some of the time?
39
Detailed Findings: Patients
www. russellresearch.com
Motor limitations, along with depression and memory
issues, are the most common difficulties in the first six
months following a stroke.

Four in five survivors (81%) indicate they experienced one or more motor
limitations within the first 6 months of suffering a stroke.
 More than one-half of survivors (56%) experienced impaired balance
within the first 6 months of suffering a stroke.
 One in two survivors (51%) experienced walking limitations within the first
6 months of suffering a stroke.

Nearly one-half of survivors (45%) experienced depression or sadness
within the first 6 months of suffering a stroke.

Nearly one-half of survivors (45%) experienced memory issues within the
first 6 months of suffering a stroke.
Activities Experienced Difficulty Within First 6 Months
Following Stroke
Total Stroke Survivors
Experienced Limitations (net)
Motor (subnet)
Impaired balance
Walking
Speech
Hand movement
Leg movement
Arm movement
Affect (subnet)
Depression or sadness
Insomnia
Loss of appetite
Uncontrollable laughing or crying
Sensory (subnet)
Numbness
Tingling
Pain
Cognition (subnet)
Memory
Maintaining attention
Calculation abilities
Language (subnet)
Writing
Reading
Vision (subnet)
Impaired vision
Blindness
Other
Incontinence
Other
No limitations
Total
(251)
%
88
81
56
51
46
44
39
37
60
45
29
20
20
54
39
30
28
52
45
31
19
33
27
22
31
26
6
3
18
2
12
J. Did you experience difficulty or limitations with any of the following in the first six months OR as a result of your stroke?
40
Detailed Findings: Patients
www. russellresearch.com
Motor limitations, and specifically balance issues, persist
beyond the initial months of suffering a stroke.

Four in five survivors who initially experienced motor limitations (80%)
continue to suffer from them.

One-half of survivors who initially experienced motor limitations (51%)
continue to suffer from impaired balance.

Nearly two in five survivors who initially experienced motor limitations
(37%) continue to suffer from walking limitations.

Nearly two in five survivors who initially experienced motor limitations
(37%) continue to suffer from hand movement limitations.
Motor Limitations Currently Experience
Base: Total Stroke Survivors Who Have Experienced Motor Limitations (n=204)
Impaired balance
51
Walking
37
Hand movement
37
Arm movement
29
Leg movement
27
Speech
27
No longer experience any
limitations
20
0
10
20
30
40
50
60
70
80
K. You {mentioned/indicated} that you had experienced motor limitations as a result of your stroke. Which of the following limitations,
if any, are you still experiencing?
41
Detailed Findings: Patients
www. russellresearch.com
Most survivors did not know they had Atrial Fibrillation prior
to experiencing a stroke.

Two in five survivors (39%) knew they suffered from Atrial Fibrillation prior
to experiencing a stroke.

Three in five survivors (61%) did not know they suffered from Atrial
Fibrillation prior to experiencing a stroke.
Awareness of Atrial Fibrillation Prior To Stroke
Base: Total Stroke Survivors (n=251)
Did not know
about Atrial
Fibrillation
until after the
stroke, 61%
Knew about
Atrial Fibrillation
prior to stroke,
39%
1a. Did you know that you had Atrial Fibrillation prior to experiencing a stroke?
42
Detailed Findings: Patients
www. russellresearch.com
A slight majority of AFib patients have attempted to become
more healthy since diagnosis, however survivors are more
likely to stay in more and join a support group.

More than one in two Atrial Fibrillation patients (55%) have attempted to
get healthier since being diagnosed.

One in two Atrial Fibrillation patients (49%) indicate they have done
everything they can to learn about reducing their risk of stroke due to Atrial
Fibrillation since being diagnosed.

More than two in five Atrial Fibrillation patients (45%) indicate they have
done everything they can to learn about Atrial Fibrillation since being
diagnosed.

Stroke survivors (35%) are nearly three times as likely as AFib-only
patients (13%) to indicate they don’t go out as much since being
diagnosed.

One in seven stroke survivors (15%) have joined a support group since
being diagnosed with Atrial Fibrillation, a significantly higher percentage
when compared to AFib-only patients (4%).
How Life Has Changed Since Atrial Fibrillation Diagnosis
Base: Total Respondents (n=499)
Getting healthier – more
exercise, eating right, etc.
55
Do everything I can to learn
about reducing my risk of
stroke due to Atrial…
Total Respondents
49
85
89
Getting healthier – more
exercise, eating right
52
58
Do everything I can to
learn about reducing my
risk of stroke due to
Atrial Fibrillation
46
53
Do everything I can to
learn about Atrial
Fibrillation
48
43
Don't go out as much
13
35
Afraid to exercise or do
other strenuous activity
17
24
Joined a support group
4
15
Taking medications
2
2
15
11
Has Changed (net)
Do everything I can to learn
about Atrial Fibrillation
45
Don't go out as much
24
Afraid to exercise or do
other strenuous activity
21
Joined a support group
9
Taking medications
2
No changes
13
No changes
0
10
20
30
40
50
Atrial
Fibrillation Stroke
Only
Survivors
(248)
(251)
%
%
60
1b. How has your life changed, or what are you doing differently, since you were diagnosed with Atrial Fibrillation?
43
Detailed Findings: Patients
www. russellresearch.com
Most Atrial Fibrillation patients understand there is an
increased risk of stroke, regardless of whether they’ve
experienced one in the past.

Four in five Atrial Fibrillation patients (80%) believe a person with Atrial
Fibrillation would be at an increased risk of stroke.

Nearly four in five Atrial Fibrillation-only patients (78%) believe a person
with Atrial Fibrillation would be at an increased risk of stroke

Stroke survivors are significantly more likely than AFib-only patients to
believe a person with Atrial Fibrillation would be at increased risk of high
blood pressure (52% vs. 41%) and chronic fatigue (51% vs. 42%).

AFib-only patients are significantly more likely than stroke survivors to
believe a person with Atrial Fibrillation would be at increased risk of
irregular heartbeat (85% vs. 71%), heart palpitations (72% vs. 57%),
difficulty breathing (54% vs. 43%), and fainting (43% vs. 33%).
Conditions Think Individual with Atrial Fibrillation Would Be At
Increased Risk For Experiencing
Base: Total Respondents (n=499)
Stroke
80
Irregular heartbeat
78
Heart palpitations
64
Heart attack
49
Difficulty breathing/
shortness of breath
48
High blood pressure
47
Chronic fatigue
46
Fainting
38
Sleep apnea
None
Total Respondents
28
3
Atrial
Fibrillation Stroke
Only
Survivors
(248)
(251)
%
%
Stroke
78
81
Irregular heartbeat
85
71
Heart palpitations
72
57
Heart attack
45
53
Difficulty breathing/
shortness of breath
54
43
High blood pressure
41
52
Chronic fatigue
42
51
Fainting
43
33
Sleep apnea
27
30
None of the above
1
6
0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90
2. Which, if any, of the following conditions do you think a person with Atrial Fibrillation would be at an increased risk for
experiencing?
44
Detailed Findings: Patients
www. russellresearch.com
A considerable percentage of Atrial Fibrillation patients
were not informed by a physician of their increased risk of
stroke.

Nearly two in three Atrial Fibrillation patients (64%) were informed by a
physician that they may be at increased risk of stroke as a result of Atrial
Fibrillation – more than one-third (36%) were not informed.

Nearly three in five Atrial Fibrillation patients (57%) were informed by a
physician that they may be at increased risk of irregular heartbeat as a
result of Atrial Fibrillation.

Atrial Fibrillation-only patients are significantly more likely than stroke
survivors to indicate they were informed of an increased risk of irregular
heartbeat (64% vs. 50%) and heart palpitations (43% vs. 33%) as a result
of Atrial Fibrillation.

Stroke survivors are significantly more likely than Atrial Fibrillation-only
patients to indicate they were informed of an increased risk of heart attack
(37% vs. 27%), high blood pressure (34% vs. 19%) and chronic fatigue
(26% vs. 14%) as a result of Atrial Fibrillation.
Conditions Physician Indicated At Increased Risk For
Experiencing As Result Of Atrial Fibrillation
Base: Total Respondents (n=499)
Stroke
64
Irregular heartbeat
57
Heart palpitations
38
Heart attack
32
High blood pressure
27
Difficulty breathing/
shortness of breath
25
Chronic fatigue
20
Fainting
17
Sleep apnea
15
None of the above
Total Respondents
Atrial
Fibrillation Stroke
Only
Survivors
(248)
(251)
%
%
9
Stroke
61
67
Irregular heartbeat
64
50
Heart palpitations
43
33
Heart attack
27
37
High blood pressure
19
34
Difficulty breathing/
shortness of breath
28
23
Chronic fatigue
14
26
Fainting
18
17
Sleep apnea
14
16
None of the above
4
14
0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80
3. When you were first diagnosed with Atrial Fibrillation, which, if any, of the following did your physician indicate you may be at an
increased risk for experiencing as a result of Atrial Fibrillation?
45
Detailed Findings: Patients
www. russellresearch.com
Most Atrial Fibrillation patients are concerned about
experiencing a stroke, while AFib-only patients have a wider
range of concerns than stroke survivors.

More than four in five Atrial Fibrillation patients (84%) are concerned about
stroke as a result of Atrial Fibrillation.

More than seven in ten Atrial Fibrillation patients (72%) are concerned
about irregular heartbeat as a result of Atrial Fibrillation.

Atrial Fibrillation-only patients are significantly more likely than stroke
survivors to be concerned about irregular heartbeat (81% vs. 62%), heart
palpitations (72% vs. 53%), difficulty breathing/shortness of breath (66%
vs. 50%), and fainting (51% vs. 36%) as a result of Atrial Fibrillation.
Condition Concern
Base: Total Respondents (n=499)
Very/Somewhat Concerned
Stroke
84
Irregular heartbeat
72
Heart attack
68
Heart palpitations
63
High blood pressure
58
Difficulty breathing/
shortness of breath
58
Chronic fatigue
56
Fainting
Sleep apnea
Total Respondents
Atrial
Fibrillation Stroke
Only
Survivors
(248)
(251)
%
%
43
Stroke
81
86
Irregular heartbeat
81
62
Heart attack
72
64
Heart palpitations
72
53
Difficulty breathing/
shortness of breath
66
50
High blood pressure
58
57
Chronic fatigue
56
56
Fainting
51
36
Sleep apnea
42
36
39
0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90100
4a. How concerned are you in terms of experiencing any of the following as a result of Atrial Fibrillation?
46
Detailed Findings: Patients
www. russellresearch.com
Although many survivors experience negative emotional
consequences, a majority aim for positive change.

Three in five stroke survivors (60%) are getting healthier since having a
stroke.

One in two stroke survivors (48%) are doing everything they can to learn
about Atrial Fibrillation since experiencing a stroke.

Two in five stroke survivors (40%) don’t go out as much since experiencing
a stroke.

Two in five stroke survivors (39%) have experienced depression since
experiencing a stroke.
Ways Life Has Changed Since Having A Stroke
Base: Total Stroke Survivors (n=251)
Getting healthier – more exercise,
eating right, etc.
60
Do everything I can to learn about
Atrial Fibrillation
48
Don't go out as much
40
Experienced depression
39
Afraid to exercise or do other
strenuous activity
23
Joined a support group
17
No changes
10
0
10
20
30
40
50
60
70
4b. How has your life changed, or what are you doing differently, since having a stroke?
47
Detailed Findings: Patients
www. russellresearch.com
A slight majority of AFib patients are familiar with ischemic
stroke.

More than one in two survivors (55%) indicate familiarity with ischemic
stroke.

One in two survivors (51%) indicate familiarity with hemorrhagic stroke.

Two in three survivors (65%) indicate familiarity with Transient Ischemic
Attack (TIA).
Stroke Type Familiarity
Base: Total Respondents (n=499)
100
90
24
Not at all
familiar
22
26
Not very
familiar
80
13
70
22
T
24
60
50
40
28
Somewhat
familiar
T
33
H
32
H
Very
familiar
26
30
20
10
27
25
55
65
51
IH
0
Ischemic
Stroke
Hemorrhagic
Stroke
Transient Ischemic
Attack (TIA)
5a. How familiar are you with the term Ischemic Stroke?
5b. How familiar are you with the term Hemorrhagic Stroke?
5c. How familiar are you with the term Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA)?
48
Detailed Findings: Patients
www. russellresearch.com
Most Atrial Fibrillation-only patients are not familiar with
ischemic stroke.

More than three in five AFib-only patients (62%) are not familiar with
ischemic stroke.

More than three in five AFib-only patients (62%) are not familiar with
hemorrhagic stroke.

Stroke survivors are significantly more likely than Atrial Fibrillation-only
patients to be familiar with transient ischemic stroke (TIA) (78% vs. 51%) ,
ischemic stroke (72% vs. 38%), and hemorrhagic stroke (63% vs. 38%).
Stroke Type Familiarity
Base: Total Respondents (n=499)
100
13
90
80
35
35
16
Not at all
familiar
31
10
Not very
familiar
17
32
20
70
60
50
12
17
30
28
27
Somewhat
familiar
Very
familiar
26
40
30
20
10
26
72
38
41
25
38
63
51
78
46
37
17
13
12
34
0
Atrial
Fibrillation
Only
Stroke
Survivors
== Ischemic ==
Atrial
Fibrillation
Only
Stroke
Survivors
= Hemorrhagic =
Atrial
Fibrillation
Only
Stroke
Survivors
==== TIA ====
5a. How familiar are you with the term Ischemic Stroke?
5b. How familiar are you with the term Hemorrhagic Stroke?
5c. How familiar are you with the term Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA)?
49
Detailed Findings: Patients
www. russellresearch.com
Most Atrial Fibrillation-only patients are unaware of the
definition of ischemic stroke.

Overall, two-fifths of Atrial Fibrillation patients (42%) correctly identified an
ischemic stroke as being caused by an obstruction within a blood vessel
supplying blood to the brain.

Less than three in ten AFib-only patients (28%) correctly identified an
ischemic stroke as being caused by an obstruction within a blood vessel
supplying blood to the brain.

Stroke survivors were significantly more likely than Atrial Fibrillation-only
patients to properly identify ischemic stroke (55% vs. 28%).
Stroke Type Identification: Obstruction Within Blood Vessel
Supplying Blood to the Brain
Base: Total Respondents (n=499)
Ischemic Stroke
Atrial
Fibrillation Stroke
Only
Survivors
42
(248)
(251)
%
%
Ischemic Stroke
28
55
Transient Ischemic
Attack (TIA)
13
14
Hemorrhagic Stroke
15
11
Don't know/not sure
44
21
Total Respondents
Transient
Ischemic Attack
(TIA)
Hemorrhagic
Stroke
Don't know/not
sure
13
13
32
0 10 20 30 40 50 60
5d. To the best of your knowledge, which type of stroke occurs as a result of an obstruction (i.e., clot or blockage) within a blood
vessel supplying blood to the brain?
50
Detailed Findings: Patients
www. russellresearch.com
AFib-only patients are more likely to be able to correctly
identify hemorrhagic stroke.

Two in three Atrial Fibrillation patients (66%) correctly identified a
hemorrhagic stroke as being the result of a ruptured blood vessel that
bleeds into the surrounding brain.

Three in four stroke survivors (75%) correctly identified a hemorrhagic
stroke as being the result of a ruptured blood vessel that bleeds into the
surrounding brain.

Nearly three in five Atrial Fibrillation-only patients (58%) correctly identified
a hemorrhagic stroke as being the result of a ruptured blood vessel that
bleeds into the surrounding brain.

Stroke survivors were significantly more likely than Atrial Fibrillation-only
patients to properly identify hemorrhagic stroke (75% vs. 58%).
Stroke Type Identification: Ruptured Blood Vessel That Bleeds
Into Surrounding Brain
Base: Total Respondents (n=499)
Hemorrhagic
Stroke
Atrial
Fibrillation Stroke
Only
Survivors
66
(248)
(251)
%
%
Hemorrhagic Stroke
58
75
Transient Ischemic
Attack (TIA)
7
7
Ischemic Stroke
3
4
Don't know/not sure
32
15
Total Respondents
Transient
Ischemic Attack
(TIA)
Ischemic Stroke
Don't know/not
sure
7
4
23
0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80
5e. To the best of your knowledge, which type of stroke occurs as a result of a weakened blood vessel that ruptures and bleeds into
the surrounding brain?
51
Detailed Findings: Patients
www. russellresearch.com
A majority of patients were unable to identify ischemic
stroke as the most common type of stroke.

Two in five Atrial Fibrillation patients (41%) believe ischemic stroke occurs
most often in people diagnosed with Atrial Fibrillation.

Three in ten Atrial Fibrillation patients (31%) are unsure what type of stroke
occurs most often in people diagnosed with Atrial Fibrillation.
Stroke Type Believed To Occur Most Often In AFib Patients
Base: Total Respondents (n=499)
100
90
80
31
33
30
Transient
Ischemic
Attack (TIA)
70
60
22
50
40
5
18
7
27
Hemorrhagic
Stroke
3
Ischemic
Stroke
30
20
Don't know/
not sure
41
42
40
Total
Atrial Fibrillation
Only
Stroke Survivors
10
0
5f. In AFib, which type of stroke do you think occurs more often?
52
Detailed Findings: Patients
www. russellresearch.com
AFib-only patients are less knowledgeable than survivors in
terms of stroke types.

Overall, two in three Atrial Fibrillation patients (65%) indicated prior
awareness of different types of strokes.

Stroke survivors are significantly more likely to be aware of the existence
of different types of strokes (74% vs. 55% of Atrial Fibrillation-only
patients).
Prior Awareness of Different Stroke Types
Base: Total Respondents (n=499)
100
90
80
26
35
45
70
Not
Previously
Aware
60
50
40
30
74
Previously
Aware
65
55
20
10
0
Total
Atrial Fibrillation
Only
Stroke Survivors
5g. Prior to today, were you aware there were different types strokes?
53
Detailed Findings: Patients
www. russellresearch.com
Most patients are concerned about experiencing a stroke in
the future.

Three in four Atrial Fibrillation patients (76%) are concerned they might
experience an ischemic stroke in the future.

Three in four Atrial Fibrillation patients (75%) are concerned they might
experience a Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA) in the future.

Two in three Atrial Fibrillation patients (65%) are concerned they might
experience a hemorrhagic stroke in the future.
Future Stroke Concern
Base: Total Respondents (n=499)
Ischemic stroke
Atrial
Fibrillation Stroke
Only
Survivors
76
(248)
(251)
%
%
Ischemic stroke
76
76
Transient Ischemic
Attack
76
75
67
63
Total Respondents
Transient
Ischemic Attack
Hemorrhagic
stroke
75
65
Hemorrhagic stroke
Very/
Somewhat
Concerned
50 60 70 80 90 100
6a. How concerned are you that you might experience an AFib-related Ischemic Stroke in the future?
6c. How concerned are you that you might experience a Hemorrhagic Stroke in the future?
6e. How concerned are you that you might experience an AFib-related Transient Ischemic Attack (a mini-stroke) in the future?
54
Detailed Findings: Patients
www. russellresearch.com
Patients want to learn more about reducing risk of all types
of stroke.

More than four in five Atrial Fibrillation patients (82%) are interested in
learning more about reducing the risk of ischemic stroke.

More than four in five Atrial Fibrillation patients (82%) are interested in
learning more about reducing the risk of Transient Ischemic Attack.

Three in four Atrial Fibrillation patients (76%) are interested in learning
more about reducing the risk of hemorrhagic stroke.

A significantly higher percentage of Atrial Fibrillation-only patients are
interested in learning more about reducing the risk of Transient Ischemic
Attack (86% vs. 78% of survivors) and hemorrhagic stroke (83% vs. 69%).
Interest In Learning More About Reducing Risk Of Stroke
Base: Total Respondents (n=499)
Ischemic
stroke
Atrial
Fibrillation Stroke
Only
Survivors
82
(248)
(251)
%
%
Ischemic stroke
85
79
Transient Ischemic
Attack
86
78
Hemorrhagic stroke
83
69
Total Respondents
Transient
Ischemic
Attack
Hemorrhagic
stroke
82
76
Very/
Somewhat
Interested
50 60 70 80 90 100
6b. How interested would you be in learning more about how to reduce your risk of an AFib-related Ischemic Stroke?
6d. How interested would you be in learning more about how to reduce your risk of a Hemorrhagic Stroke?
6f. How interested would you be in learning more about how to reduce your risk of an AFib-related Transient Ischemic Attack (a mini-stroke)?
55
Detailed Findings: Patients
www. russellresearch.com
Motor limitations and loss of independence concern
patients most when it comes to experiencing a stroke.

One-third of Atrial Fibrillation patients (32%) indicate their primary concern
about having a stroke is losing the ability to move, talk, or some other
physical function.

Two in five Atrial Fibrillation-only patients (40%) indicate their primary
concern about having a stroke is losing the ability to move, talk, or some
other physical function, significantly higher than stroke survivors (24%).

One in five stroke survivors (20%) indicate their primary concern about
having a stroke is loss of independence, significantly higher than AFib-only
patients (13%).

One in seven Atrial Fibrillation patients (15%) indicate their primary
concern about having a stroke is being dependent on someone else.
Primary Concern About Having A Stroke
Base: Total Respondents (n=499)
32
Losing the ability to move, talk, or some
other physical function
40
24
17
Loss of independence
13
20
15
14
16
Being dependent on someone else
11
13
10
Death
8
8
8
Financial burdens on me and my family
5
5
6
No longer being able to enjoy activities or
hobbies
3
2
4
Being unable to do my current job
1
1
2
Feelings of isolation
Total
AFib Only
5
Not concerned with having a stroke
Stroke Survivor
3
7
0
10
20
30
40
50
6g. What concerns you most about having a stroke?
56
Detailed Findings: Patients
www. russellresearch.com
A majority of Atrial Fibrillation patients not initially told of an
increased stroke risk were eventually informed by their
physician.

Nearly three in five patients who were not told of an increased stroke risk
(58%) have had a discussion with their physician about their increased risk
of stroke due to Atrial Fibrillation.

More than three in five stroke survivors who were not told of an increased
stroke risk (63%) have had a discussion with their physician about their
increased risk of stroke due to Atrial Fibrillation.

More than one in two AFib-only patients who were not told of an increased
stroke risk (53%) have had a discussion with their physician about their
increased risk of stroke due to Atrial Fibrillation.

Overall, more than four in five Atrial Fibrillation patients (85%) have had a
discussion with their physician about their increased risk of stroke due to
Atrial Fibrillation.
Whether Physician Ever Discussed Increased Risk of Stroke Due
To Atrial Fibrillation
Base: Total Not Told Of Increased Stroke
Risk (n=179)
100
90
80
42
37
47
70
Physician has
not discussed
increased risk
of stroke due
to Atrial
Fibrillation
60
50
40
30
63
58
53
Total
Atrial Fibrillation
Only
Stroke Survivors
85%
82%
88%
20
Physician has
discussed
increased risk
of stroke due
to Atrial
Fibrillation
10
0
Total %
7. Has your physician ever discussed with you the increased risk of stroke due to Atrial Fibrillation?
57
Detailed Findings: Patients
www. russellresearch.com
Patients believe there is a near equal initiation of
conversation with physicians regarding increased risk of
Atrial Fibrillation-related stroke and available treatments.

On average, patients indicate they initiate nearly one-half (47%) of
conversations about increased risk of AFib-related stroke and available
treatments to reduce the risk of AFib-related stroke.

On average, patients indicate physicians initiate a slight majority (53%) of
conversations about increased risk of AFib-related stroke and available
treatments to reduce the risk of AFib-related stroke.
Atrial Fibrillation Stroke Treatment Conversation Initiation
Base: Total Ever Discussed Increased Stroke Risk With Doctor (n=423)
Atrial
Fibrillation Stroke
Only
Survivors
Total Discussed
Increased Risk Of
Stroke With Doctor
Initiated by
physician, 53%
(203)
(220)
%
%
Initiated by physician
56
50
Initiated by patient
44
50
Initiated by
patient, 47%
8. Thinking about conversations you have had with your physician about increased risk of AFib-related stroke and available
treatments to reduce the risk of AFib-related stroke, what percentage of the time would you say conversations are initiated by you
versus those initiated by your physician?
58
Detailed Findings: Patients
www. russellresearch.com
Direct discussion and written materials are the most
common form of education by physicians about increased
risk of AFib-related stroke.

Six in seven Atrial Fibrillation patients (87%) indicate their physician has
discussed their situation with them directly.

Less than one-half of patients (48%) indicate their physician gave them
written materials to read regarding Atrial Fibrillation and the increased risk
of AFib-related stroke.

One in four Atrial Fibrillation patients (25%) indicate a nurse, educator, or
other professionals in their physician’s office has discussed their situation
with them.
Ways Physician Has Discussed Specifics of Atrial Fibrillation &
Increased Risk Of Atrial Fibrillation-Related Stroke
Base: Total Discussed With Doctor Increased Risk of Stoke (n=423)
87
87
86
Your physician discussed your situation with you
directly
48
48
47
Gave you written material to read (e.g. brochures,
pamphlets, etc.)
25
21
28
A nurse, educator, or other professional in their
office discussed your situation with you
11
12
11
Directed you to associations or websites related
specifically to heart conditions or AFib-related stroke
Directed you to a pharmaceutical company's website
that had information on medications to reduce the
risk of AFib-related stroke
7
6
9
You were given educational CDs or DVDs
7
5
9
6
4
7
Directed you to a pharmaceutical company's website
that focused on the condition
4
2
5
You were directed to download an app for a mobile
phone, tablet computer or other device
Total
Atrial Fibrillation Only
Stroke Survivors
1
2
1
Prescribed medication
0
10
20
30
40
50
60
70
80
90 100
9a. In which, if any, ways has your physician discussed the specifics of your condition and increased risk of AFib-related stroke?
59
Detailed Findings: Patients
www. russellresearch.com
Atrial Fibrillation patients are mostly satisfied with the
information that was provided to them by their physician.

Nine in ten patients (89%) are satisfied with the information provided by
their physician about their condition and increased risk of AFib-related
stroke.

More than nine in ten AFib-only patients (93%) are satisfied with the
information provided by their physician about their condition and increased
risk of AFib-related stroke, significantly higher than the level of satisfaction
among stroke survivors (86%).
Level Of Satisfaction With Information Provided By Physician
Base: Total Discussed With Doctor Increased Risk of Stoke (n=423)
100
90
2
5
3
8
4
Not at all
satisfied
10
80
70
45
41
Not very
satisfied
36
60
Somewhat
satisfied
50
Very
satisfied
40
30
48
10
50
47
20
89
93
86
0
Total
Atrial Fibrillation
Only
Stroke Survivors
9b. Overall, how satisfied were you with the information provided by your physician about your condition and increased risk of AFibrelated stroke? Were you…
60
Detailed Findings: Patients
www. russellresearch.com
Among patients who are dissatisfied with provided
information or those who have not discussed their situation
with physicians, direct discussion and written materials are
both wanted.

Three in five Atrial Fibrillation patients who are dissatisfied with provided
information or have not discussed their increased risk of stroke with
physicians (62%) would like to discuss their situation directly with their
physician.

Stroke survivors (71%) are significantly more likely than Atrial Fibrillationonly patients (53%) to want to speak with their doctor directly.

More than one in two Atrial Fibrillation patients who are dissatisfied with
provided information or have not discussed their increased risk of stroke
with physicians (55%) want written materials to read.
Information Sources Would Like Physician
To Provide More Often
Base: Total Not Satisfied With Information/Have Not Discussed With Doctor (n=122)
62
Discussion of your situation directly with your
physician
53
71
55
57
53
Written material to read
Discussion of your situation with a nurse,
educator, or other professional in your
physician's office
35
40
31
34
Information on associations/websites related
specifically to heart conditions or stroke
40
29
25
Educational CDs or DVDs
33
18
Information on a pharmaceutical company's
website that focuses on the condition
15
15
15
Information on a pharmaceutical company's
website that has information on medications
to reduce the risk of stroke
14
15
13
10
12
8
An app that can be downloaded for a mobile
phone, tablet computer or other device
Total
Atrial Fibrillation Only
1
2
None
0
Stroke Survivors
10
20
30
40
50
60
70
80
9c. Which of the following would you like more of from your physician on the specifics of your condition and increased risk of AFibrelated stroke?
61
Detailed Findings: Patients
www. russellresearch.com
A majority of stroke survivors who spoke with a physician
about increased risk of stroke never had a discussion
regarding their risk with and without medication.

Less than one in two stroke survivors who spoke with their physician about
Atrial Fibrillation (48%) discussed the risk of stroke with and without
medication.

Two in three AFib-only patients who spoke with their physician about Atrial
Fibrillation (65%) discussed the risk of stroke with and without medication
– significantly higher than for stroke survivors.

One in two stroke survivors who spoke with their physician about Atrial
Fibrillation (50%) discussed the symptoms of AFib-related stroke –
significantly higher than for AFib-only patients (35%).
Topics of Discussion With Physician Regarding Atrial
Fibrillation-Related Stroke
Base: Total Discussed Increased Risk Of Stroke With Doctor (n=423)
56
Your risk of having AFib-related stroke
with and without medication
65
48
43
Symptoms of AFib-related stroke
35
50
40
Actions to take if witnessing or
experiencing symptoms of AFib-related
stroke
37
42
30
Impact of AFib-related stroke on
everyday life
25
35
23
None of the above
18
Total
Atrial Fibrillation
Only
Stroke Survivors
27
0
10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90 100
10. Has your physician ever discussed with you any of the following regarding stroke?
62
Detailed Findings: Patients
www. russellresearch.com
Prevention of ischemic stroke is the most widely cited
quality in treatment.

Two in five patients who discussed an increased stroke risk with
physicians (39%) named using a treatment that reduces the risk of a stroke
caused by a blood clot in the brain to be the most important quality, and
three in five (59%) named it as one of their two most important qualities.

More than one in five patients who discussed an increased stroke risk with
physicians (22%) named using a treatment which causes the least side
effects to be the most important quality, and more than two in five (43%)
named it as one of their two most important qualities.

One in seven patients who discussed an increased stroke risk with
physicians (14%) named using a treatment that minimizes the risk of a
stroke caused by a bleed in the brain to be the most important quality, and
two in five (40%) named it as one of their two most important qualities.
Most Important Qualities In Treatment Designed To Reduce Risk
Of Stroke From Atrial Fibrillation
Base: Total Discussed Increased Stroke Risk With Doctor (n=423)
Most
Using a treatment that reduces the risk of a
stroke caused by a blood clot in the brain
2nd Most
39
Using a treatment which causes the least
side effects
20
22
Using a treatment that minimizes the risk of
a stroke caused by a bleed in the brain
14
Finding a treatment that is easy to use
(e.g. once a day, etc.)
12
Being affordable
11
21
19
59
43
26
12
Total
40
32
23
No answer 01 1
-
10
20
30
40
50
60
70
11a. When discussing treatment options to reduce your risk of stroke in atrial fibrillation with your doctor, which of the following is
most important to you?
11b. And when discussing treatment options to reduce your risk of stroke in atrial fibrillation with your doctor, which of the following is
second most important to you?
63
Detailed Findings: Patients
www. russellresearch.com
Most patients who have discussed AFib-related stroke with
their physician has taken oral anticoagulants for treatment.

Six in seven patients who have discussed Atrial Fibrillation-related stroke
with their physician (87%) have taken medication to reduce their risk of
stroke.

More than seven in ten patients who have taken medication to reduce their
risk of AFib-related stroke (72%) have been prescribed an oral
anticoagulant.

One in two patients who have taken medication to reduce their risk of
AFib-related stroke (49%) have been prescribed an antiplatelet.
Whether Ever Taken Medications And Types Prescribed To
Reduce Risk Of Atrial Fibrillation-Related Stroke
Base: Total Discussed Atrial FibrillationRelated Stroke Risk With Doctor (n=423)
100
90
13
14
Base: Total Have Taken Medication (n=369)
Total
12
Atrial Fibrillation Only
Stroke Survivor
80
72
Not Taken
Medication
70
60
50
40
87
86
88
Oral
anticoagulant
72
73
Taken
Medication
30
49
20
Antiplatelet
49
10
49
0
Total
Atrial
Stroke
Fibrillation Survivors
Only
0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80
12. Has your physician ever had you take medications to reduce the risk of AFib-related stroke?
13a. To the best of your knowledge, what type(s) of treatment options has your physician prescribed in order to reduce the risk of
AFib-related stroke?
64
Detailed Findings: Patients
www. russellresearch.com
The vast majority of Atrial Fibrillation patients that have
taken medication are compliant, with AFib-only patients
comprising the small percentage who are not taking their
medication.

More than nine in ten patients who have taken medication (92%) regularly
take their prescribed treatment to reduce their risk of AFib-related stroke.

Atrial Fibrillation-only patients are significantly more likely than stroke
survivors to have stopped taking their prescribed treatment (9% vs. 4%).
Whether Regularly Takes Prescribed Treatment
Base: Total Have Taken Medication (n=369)
100
90
6
2
9
3
4
1
Have stopped
taking
prescribed
treatment
80
70
Do not
regularly take
prescribed
treatment
60
50
92
96
88
40
30
Regularly
take
prescribed
treatment
20
10
0
Total
Atrial Fibrillation
Only
Stroke Survivors
13b. Do you regularly take the treatment prescribed by your doctor?
65
Detailed Findings: Patients
www. russellresearch.com
A considerable percentage of AFib-only patients could not
describe the most common stroke symptoms.

One in three Atrial Fibrillation-only patients (32%) feel they are not able to
describe the common symptoms of stroke.

Nearly nine in ten stroke survivors (88%) feel they are able to describe the
common symptoms of stroke.
Few Atrial Fibrillation patients know that women at are at
higher risk of Atrial Fibrillation-related stroke.

More than one in four Atrial Fibrillation patients (27%) believe women have
a higher risk of experiencing an AFib-related stroke. Survivors (31%) are
significantly more likely than AFib-only patients (23%) to believe women
are at greater risk.

One in four patients (24%) believe men have a higher risk of experiencing
an AFib-related stroke.

One-half of patients (49%) do not believe either gender has a higher risk of
experiencing an AFib-related stroke.
Gender Believe Has Higher Risk Of Atrial Fibrillation-Related
Stroke & Whether Able To Describe Most Common Symptoms
Base: Total Respondents (n=499)
100
100
90
90
80
80
12
22
32
49
70
45
53
60
No
difference
70
Women
60
Not able to
describe
most
common
symptoms of
stroke
50
50
Men
40
27
31
88
40
23
68
30
30
20
20
10
24
24
78
24
Able to
describe
most
common
symptoms of
stroke
10
0
0
Total
Atrial
Stroke
Fibrillation Survivors
Only
Total
Atrial
Stroke
Fibrillation Survivors
Only
14. Who do you think has a higher risk of experiencing an AFib-related stroke?
15. If asked, do you believe that you would be able to describe to someone the most common symptoms of a stroke?
66
Detailed Findings: Patients
www. russellresearch.com
Speaking and loss of movement are the most widely
thought symptoms of stroke.

Nine in ten Atrial Fibrillation patients (89%) believe sudden trouble
speaking is a symptom of someone experiencing a stroke.

Six in seven Atrial Fibrillation patients (86%) believe sudden numbness/
tingling/weakness/loss of movement in face/arm/leg, especially on one
side of the body is a symptom of someone experiencing a stroke.

Four in five Atrial Fibrillation patients (81%) believe sudden problems with
walking or balance is a symptom of someone experiencing a stroke.

Four in five Atrial Fibrillation patients (80%) believe sudden confusion or
trouble understanding simple statements is a symptom of someone
experiencing a stroke.
Symptoms Of Stroke
Base: Total Respondents (n=499)
89
90
87
86
85
86
Sudden trouble speaking
Sudden numbness/tingling/weakness/loss of
movement in face/arm/leg, especially on only one…
81
78
83
80
79
80
Sudden problems with walking or balance
Sudden confusion or trouble understanding simple
statements
Sudden vision changes
Sudden general weakness
56
67
70
64
62
67
58
58
59
58
54
61
52
51
53
Sudden dizziness
A sudden, severe headache that is different from past
headaches
Sudden face and limb pain
32
34
29
30
33
28
27
31
24
21
24
18
Sudden nausea
Sudden shortness of breath
Sudden palpitations
Sudden chest pain
10
20
30
40
Total
Atrial Fibrillation Only
Stroke Survivors
50
60
70
80
90
100
16a. To the best of your knowledge, which, if any, of the following are symptoms of someone experiencing a stroke?
67
Detailed Findings: Patients
www. russellresearch.com
Several potential negative outcomes are widely seen as
possible after experiencing a stroke.

About four in five Atrial Fibrillation patients believe an inability to speak
(82%), paralysis (80%), balance issues (80%), problems thinking (79%)
and memory loss (78%) are possible outcomes after having a stroke.

More than three in four Atrial Fibrillation patients (77%) believe death is a
possible outcome after having a stroke.
Potential Outcomes After Having A Stroke
Base: Total Respondents (n=499)
82
Inability to speak (aphasia)
Paralysis
80
Balance issues
80
Problems thinking (cognitive challenges)
79
Memory loss
78
Death
77
Inability to drive
75
Weakness
75
72
Recurrent stroke
64
Vision loss
60
Difficulty with swallowing (dysphagia)
Tight/stiff muscles & inability to control muscles…
58
58
Fatigue
55
Inability to control urine or bowels (incontinence)
49
Intimacy and sexual challenges
45
Seizures
Pain
42
Impulse control
41
Sleep disorders
41
Sudden/unpredicted episodes of crying/laughing…
Total
39
27
Chest pain
0
10
20
30
40
50
60
70
80
90
100
16b. To the best of your knowledge, which, if any, of the following are possible outcomes after a stroke?
68
Detailed Findings: Patients
www. russellresearch.com
Stroke survivors see a far wider range of potential negative
outcomes compared to Atrial Fibrillation-only patients.

Virtually every potential outcome after a stroke was cited by a significantly
higher percentage of stroke survivors.

The largest gaps in perception were sleep disorders (59% survivors vs.
23% AFib-only patients), sudden/unpredicted episodes of crying/laughing
(55% vs. 24%), fatigue (73% vs. 43%), pain (55% vs. 29%), inability to
control urine or bowels (67% vs. 43%), and impulse control (52% vs. 30%).
Potential Outcomes After Having A Stroke
Base: Total Respondents (n=499)
83
81
81
78
75
85
75
83
73
82
75
79
70
80
70
79
Inability to speak (aphasia)
Paralysis
Balance issues
Problems thinking (cognitive challenges)
Memory loss
Death
Inability to drive
Weakness
65
Recurrent stroke
56
Vision loss
52
Difficulty with swallowing (dysphagia)
Fatigue
43
Inability to control urine or bowels (incontinence)
43
Intimacy and sexual challenges
43
36
Seizures
Pain
29
Impulse control
30
20
Chest pain
0
10
20
73
67
56
55
52
59
24
Sudden/unpredicted episodes of crying/laughing…
66
53
23
Sleep disorders
73
67
50
Tight/stiff muscles & inability to control muscles…
79
Atrial
Fibrillation Only
Stroke
Survivors
55
34
30
40
50
60
70
80
90
100
16b. To the best of your knowledge, which, if any, of the following are possible outcomes after a stroke?
69
Detailed Findings: Patients
www. russellresearch.com
Virtually all Atrial Fibrillation-only patients would do
whatever is needed to reduce their risk of AFib-related
stroke, and most would like more information.

More than nine in ten AFib-only patients (92%) would do whatever their
physician tells them in order to reduce the risk of an AFib-related stroke.

More than nine in ten AFib-only patients (92%) indicate it would not matter
to them whether they had to take a treatment once or twice a day if it
reduced the risk of stroked caused by a blood clot in the brain.

More than nine in ten AFib-only patients (92%) indicate that if a treatment
that reduced their risk of AFib-related stroke required regular visits to their
physician, they would do it (92%).

Four in five AFib-only patients (80%) would like to have more information
to take charge of their Atrial Fibrillation and learn about reducing the risk of
AFib-related stroke.
Atrial Fibrillation-Only Statement Agreement
Base: Atrial Fibrillation Patients Only (n=248)
I would do whatever my physician tells me in
order to reduce the risk of an AFib-related
stroke
93
If a treatment reduces the risk of stroke caused
by a blood clot in the brain, it would not matter
to me whether I had to take it once or twice in a
day.
92
If a treatment that reduced my risk of AFibrelated stroke required regular visits to my
physician, I would do it
92
I will seek to find out everything I can about
Atrial Fibrillation and reducing my AFib-related
stroke risk
87
Managing the irregular heart beat is most
important to me
85
I would like to have more information to take
charge of my Atrial Fibrillation and learn about
reducing the risk of AFib-related stroke
80
The cost of my medication is not a
consideration if it reduces my risk of having an
AFib-related stroke
77
I think treating an irregular heartbeat is more
important than preventing a blood clot
51
0
Agree Strongly/
Somewhat
10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90 100
17. How much do you agree or disagree with each of the following statements?
70
Detailed Findings: Patients
www. russellresearch.com
An alarming number of Atrial Fibrillation patients do not
understand the severity of AFib-related strokes.

More than two in three Atrial Fibrillation patients (68%) were not previously
aware that AFib-related strokes are nearly twice as likely to be fatal or
disabling as non-AFib-related strokes.

Nearly two in three Atrial Fibrillation patients (64%) were previously aware
that you can have 5 times greater risk for stroke if you are living with
untreated Atrial Fibrillation.

Nearly three in five Atrial Fibrillation patients (58%) were previously aware
that the majority of AFib-related strokes are caused by a blood clot in the
brain.
Atrial Fibrillation Fact Awareness (Previously Aware)
Base: Total Respondents (n=499)
By taking an oral anticoagulant (“blood thinner”),
the risk of AFib-related stroke may be reduced by
about two thirds
72
78
67
Physicians assess a patient's individual AFibrelated stroke and bleeding risk when considering
treatment options for stroke risk reduction
69
77
62
If I am in Atrial Fibrillation only sometimes
(intermittent), I may still be at risk for AFib-related
stroke
69
77
61
People living with Atrial Fibrillation are at risk for
stroke even if they only experience occasional
irregular heartbeats
68
73
63
67
Some Atrial Fibrillation patients may not have any
noticeable symptoms
73
60
64
67
60
You can have 5 times greater risk for stroke if you
are living with untreated Atrial Fibrillation
58
57
59
The majority of AFib-related strokes are caused
by a blood clot in the brain
AFib-related strokes are nearly twice as likely to
be fatal or disabling as non-AFib-related strokes
32
32
32
Women with atrial fibrillation have a higher risk for
ischemic stroke than men
31
30
33
0
10
20
30
40
Total
Atrial Fibrillation Only
Stroke Survivors
50
60
70
80
18. I will now read you a list of facts about Atrial Fibrillation. Please tell me whether you were previously aware or not previously of
these facts.
71
Detailed Findings: Patients
www. russellresearch.com
Stroke survivors underestimated the impact an AFib-related
stroke could have on their lives.

Five in six stroke survivors (83%) wish they had known more about
reducing the risk of an AFib-related stroke prior to experiencing a stroke.

More than three in four stroke survivors (77%) agree that their life has not
been the same since experiencing an AFib-related stroke.

Nearly three in four survivors (73%) agree that experiencing a stroke was
worse than they had imagined.

Three in five stroke survivors (60%) sometimes feel like they are a burden
to others since experiencing an AFib-related stroke.

More than three in five stroke survivors (63%) believe that there was not
enough information on reducing the risk of AFib-related stroke provided to
them when they was initially diagnosed with Atrial Fibrillation.
Stroke Statement Agreement
Base: Total Stroke Survivors (n=251)
I wish I had known more about reducing the risk
of an AFib-related stroke prior to experiencing a
stroke
83
Experiencing an AFib-related stroke made me
more focused on improving my health
83
My life has not been the same since I
experienced an AFib-related stroke
77
Experiencing a stroke was worse than I had
imagined
73
There was not enough information on reducing
the risk of AFib-related stroke provided to me
when I was initially diagnosed with Atrial
Fibrillation
63
I felt I knew enough about reducing my risk of
AFib-related stroke after being diagnosed with
Atrial Fibrillation
61
Since I experienced an AFib-related stroke, I
sometimes feel like I'm a burden to others
60
Agree
Strongly/
Somewhat
53
Having a stroke was my biggest fear
0
10
20
30
40
50
60
70
80
90 100
19. How much do you agree or disagree with each of the following statements?
72
Detailed Findings: Patients
www. russellresearch.com
Activities previously done outside of the home are most
often affected post-stroke.

Among survivors who indicated their life has not been the same, more than
one-half (56%) indicate they can no longer do activities or hobbies that
bring them joy.

Among survivors who indicated their life has not been the same, more than
two in five (44%) indicate they had to give up my job or reduce my hours.

Among survivors who indicated their life has not been the same, two in five
(40%) indicate it has been a financial burden.
Life Changes Experienced Since Stroke
Base: Total Agree Life Has Changed Since Stroke (n=194)
Can no longer do activities or hobbies
that bring me joy
56
Had to give up my job or reduce my
hours
44
It has been a financial burden
40
Feel isolated
35
Can no longer drive
34
I am a burden on my family
32
Need assistance with daily activities
32
Had to change my living
arrangements
25
0
10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90 100
20. You {mentioned/indicated} that your life has not been the same since experiencing an AFib-related stroke. In which, if any, of the
following ways has your life changed?
73
Detailed Findings: Patients
www. russellresearch.com
Patient Demographic Profile
Total Respondents
Gender
Male
Female
Mean Age:
Total
(499)
%
49
51
50
50
49
51
62.1
60.9
63.2
Primary Coordinator For Daily
Home/Medical Care
83
Self
15
Family member
1
Friend
1
Hired caregiver
Devices Own
Mobile/cell phone
Desktop computer
Laptop or netbook
computer
iPad or other tablet
E-reader
96
4
0
70
26
2
2
80
72
80
74
80
70
70
72
67
46
29
49
27
44
30
Devices Use To Access Health
Information
55
Desktop computer
Laptop or netbook
51
computer
21
iPad or other tablet
17
Mobile/cell phone
4
E-reader
7
None of the above
Marital Status
Married
Not Married (net)
AFib Stroke
Only Survivor
(248) (251)
%
%
61
39
55
55
53
49
22
12
1
6
20
21
7
8
63
37
58
41
Total Respondents
Total
(499)
%
AFib Stroke
Only Survivor
(248) (251)
%
%
Education
No College (net)
College (net)
20
79
17
83
24
75
Employment Status
Employed (net)
Not Employed (net)
27
72
33
67
21
76
57.8
63.7
51.1
86
6
2
2
88
5
2
2
85
8
2
2
1
2
1
1
0
1
1
1
2
Type Of Community
Urban
Suburban
Rural
22
58
19
21
61
18
24
55
21
Census Region
Northeast
South
Midwest
West
21
38
21
20
21
35
23
20
21
41
18
20
Median Household
Income
Ethnic Background
Caucasian
African-American
Hispanic/Latino
Native American
Asian/Pacific
Islander
Mixed ethnic
background
Rather not answer
74
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Detailed Findings: Caregivers
Detailed Findings: Caregivers
75
Detailed Findings: Caregivers
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Ischemic strokes are the most common type experienced by
survivors in the care of caregivers.

More than one in two caregivers (56%) indicate the person in their care
has experienced an ischemic stroke.

One in five caregivers (20%) indicate the person in their care has
experienced an hemorrhagic stroke.

One in five caregivers (19%) indicate the person in their care has
experienced a Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA).

One in ten caregivers (10%) indicate the person in their care has
experienced a combination of hemorrhagic and ischemic stroke.

More than one in two caregivers (55%) indicate the person in their care
has experienced 1 stroke.

One in four caregivers (24%) indicate the person in their care has
experienced 3 or more strokes.
Type & Number of Strokes Experienced
Base: Total Respondents (n=203)
Ischemic
56
Hemorrhagic
20
Transient Ischemic
Attack or TIA
19
3 or more
strokes,
24%
2 strokes,
21%
Combination of
Hemorrhagic and
Ischemic
10
Don't know
10
1 stroke,
55%
Mean: 2
0 10 20 30 40 50 60
E. What type of stroke did (he/she) experience?
F. In total, how many strokes has (he/she) experienced?
76
Detailed Findings: Caregivers
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Most caregivers are providing assistance to survivors who
experienced a stroke less than 5 years ago.

Three in four caregivers (74%) are providing care to a survivor who
experienced their most recent stroke less than 5 years ago.

One in five caregivers (20%) are providing care to a survivor who
experienced their most recent stroke less than 1 year ago.
Time of Survivor’s Most Recent Stroke
Base: Total Respondents (n=203)
Less than 6
months ago,
10%
6 months to 11
months ago,
10%
5 or more
years ago,
26%
3 to 4
years ago,
22%
1 to 2
years ago,
32%
Mean: 3 years
G. How long ago did (his/her) most recent stroke take place?
77
Detailed Findings: Caregivers
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Caregiving covers all aspects of a survivor’s life, and a
considerable percentage of caregivers are providing
assistance for nearly all everyday activities.

On average, caregivers are providing assistance to survivors during 47%
of their everyday activities.

One in seven caregivers (14%) provide assistance 100% of the time
survivors are doing everyday activities.

One in two caregivers (50%) provide assistance at least half of the time
survivors are doing everyday activities.

More than four in five caregivers who provide assistance (83%) drive for
survivors at least some of the time.

Four in five caregivers who provide assistance (79%) help with shopping
for survivors at least some of the time.

Three in five caregivers who provide assistance (62%) help with bathing
for survivors at least some of the time.
Time And Activities Where Assistance Is Required
Base: Total Respondents (n=203)
Base: Total Provide Assistance (n=190)
Driving
83
Shopping
79
Taking medication
100
percent,
14%
0 to 19
percent, 29%
75 to 99
percent, 18%
50 to 74
percent,
19%
76
Bathing
62
Moving/mobility
62
Dressing
58
Grooming
20 to 49
percent,
21%
Mean: 47%
54
Toileting
40
Transferring
39
Feeding
Bill paying/money
management
Housekeping/laundry/
preparing meals
33
3
3
0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90
H.
When it comes to everyday activities (such as bathing, dressing, or toileting), keeping in mind that (he/she) may need more help
in some areas, on average what percentage of the time do you have to provide assistance to (him/her)?
I. For what type(s) of everyday activities do you need to provide assistance at least some of the time?
78
Detailed Findings: Caregivers
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Motor and cognitive limitations are most commonly
observed by caregivers in the months immediately following
a stroke.

More than nine in ten caregivers (92%) indicate the survivor in their care
experienced one or more motor limitations within the first 6 months of
suffering a stroke.

Four in five caregivers (81%) indicate the survivor in their care experienced
one or more cognitive limitations within the first 6 months of suffering a
stroke.

Impaired balance (71%), walking (70%), memory (70%), speech (60%),
and arm movement (58%) are the most common limitations experienced
as reported by caregivers.
Activities Survivor Experienced Difficulty With In First 6 Months
Following Stroke
Total Respondents
Experienced Limitations (net)
Motor (subnet)
Impaired balance
Walking
Speech
Arm movement
Hand movement
Leg movement
Cognition (subnet)
Memory
Maintaining attention
Calculation abilities
Affect (subnet)
Depression or sadness
Loss of appetite
Insomnia
Uncontrollable laughing or crying
Sensory (subnet)
Numbness
Pain
Tingling
Language (subnet)
Writing
Reading
Vision (subnet)
Impaired vision
Blindness
Other
Incontinence
Other
No limitations
Total
(203)
%
97
92
71
70
60
58
55
54
81
70
45
40
69
56
33
30
19
62
39
36
32
59
52
44
43
37
4
3
39
6
3
J. Did (he/she) experience difficulty or limitations with any of the following in the first six months OR as a result of (his/her) stroke?
79
Detailed Findings: Caregivers
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Impaired balance and walking are the motor limitations
most likely to remain over time.

Two in three caregivers (65%) whose survivor initially experienced motor
limitations continues to suffer from impaired balance.

Nearly two in three caregivers (58%) whose survivor initially experienced
motor limitations continues to suffer from walking limitations.

Only six percent of caregivers whose survivor initially experienced motor
limitations indicated they no longer experience any type of motor limitation.
Motor Limitations Patient Currently Experiences
Base: Total With Patients Who Have Experienced Motor Limitations (n=186)
Impaired balance
65
Walking
58
Hand movement
48
Leg movement
47
Arm movement
47
Speech
42
No longer experience any
limitations
6
0
10
20
30
40
50
60
70
80
K. You {mentioned/indicated} that (he/she) had experienced motor limitations as a result of (his/her) stroke. Which of the following
limitations, if any, does (he/she) still experience?
80
Detailed Findings: Caregivers
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A slight majority of caregivers did not know the person
currently in their care had Atrial Fibrillation prior to
experiencing a stroke.

Less than one in two caregivers (47%) were aware the survivor in their
care suffered from Atrial Fibrillation prior to experiencing a stroke.

More than two in five caregivers (43%) indicate the person in their care
doesn’t go out as much since being diagnosed with Atrial Fibrillation.

Three in ten caregivers (29%) indicate the person in their care is getting
healthier since being diagnosed with Atrial Fibrillation.

One in five caregivers (21%) indicate the person in their care is afraid to do
exercise or other strenuous activity since being diagnosed with Atrial
Fibrillation.

One in five caregivers (21%) indicate the person in their care is doing
everything to learn about reducing risk of stroke due to Atrial Fibrillation
since being diagnosed.
Awareness of Patient’s Atrial Fibrillation Prior To Stroke And
How Patient’s Life Has Changed
Base: Total Respondents (n=203)
Doesn't go out as much
43
Getting healthier – more
exercise, eating right, etc.
Did not know
Knew about
about
patient's Atrial
patient's
Fibrillation
Atrial
prior to
Fibrillation
stroke, 47%
until after
the stroke,
53%
29
Afraid to exercise or do other
strenuous activity
21
Does everything to learn
about reducing risk of stroke
due to Atrial Fibrillation
21
Does everything to learn
about Atrial Fibrillation
10
Joined a support group
8
Takes medication
3
He/she has not made any
changes
27
0
10
20
30
40
50
1a. Did you know that (he/she) had Atrial Fibrillation prior to (his/her) experiencing a stroke?
1b. To the best of your knowledge, how has (his/her) life changed, or what is (he/she) doing differently, since (he/she) was diagnosed
with Atrial Fibrillation?
81
Detailed Findings: Caregivers
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Prior to the person in their care experiencing a stroke, a
slight majority of caregivers believed a person with Atrial
Fibrillation was at an increased risk of stroke.

More than one-half of caregivers (54%) believed Atrial Fibrillation caused
an increased risk of stroke prior to the person in their care experiencing a
stroke.

Two in three caregivers (65%) believed Atrial Fibrillation caused an
increased risk of irregular heartbeat prior to the person in their care
experiencing a stroke.

Nearly one in two caregivers (47%) believed Atrial Fibrillation caused an
increased risk of heart palpitations prior to the person in their care
experiencing a stroke.

More than two in five caregivers (45%) believed Atrial Fibrillation caused
an increased risk of heart attack prior to the person in their care
experiencing a stroke.
Conditions Personally Thought Individual with Atrial Fibrillation
Was At Increased Risk For Experiencing Prior to Patient’s Stroke
Base: Total Respondents (n=203)
Irregular heartbeat
65
Stroke
54
Heart palpitations
47
Heart attack
45
High blood pressure
36
Difficulty breathing/shortness of breath
33
Chronic fatigue
29
Fainting
24
Sleep apnea
21
None
22
0
10
20
30
40
50
60
70
80
2. Prior to (his/her) experiencing a stroke, which, if any, of the following conditions did you personally think a person with Atrial
Fibrillation would be at an increased risk for experiencing?
82
Detailed Findings: Caregivers
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A majority of caregivers do not believe a physician informed
the person in their care of the increased risk of stroke with
Atrial Fibrillation.

Two in five caregivers (39%) believe the person in their care was informed
of an increased risk of stroke with Atrial Fibrillation.

One in three caregivers (34%) believe the person in their care was
informed of an increased risk of irregular heartbeat with Atrial Fibrillation.

However, more than one in four caregivers (28%) don’t know what the
survivor in their care was told by their physician.
Conditions Physician Indicated Patient At Increased Risk For
Experiencing As Result Of Atrial Fibrillation
Base: Total Respondents (n=203)
Stroke
39
Irregular heartbeat
34
High blood pressure
27
Heart palpitations
26
Heart attack
23
Difficulty breathing/shortness of breath
19
Chronic fatigue
10
Sleep apnea
8
Fainting
8
Don't know
28
None of the above
19
0
10
20
30
40
50
3. Prior to (his/her) experiencing a stroke, which, if any, of the following did (his/her) physician indicate (he/she) may be at an
increased risk for experiencing as a result of Atrial Fibrillation?
83
Detailed Findings: Caregivers
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Most caregivers do not believe Atrial Fibrillation-related
stroke was a concern of the survivor in their care, and
several conditions were of more widespread concern.
Caregivers often believe they were more concerned.

One in three caregivers (34%) believe that prior to their stroke, the person
in their care was concerned about stroke as a result of Atrial Fibrillation,
compared to more than one-half of caregivers (56%) being concerned.

Two in five caregivers (40%) believe that prior to their stroke, the person in
their care was concerned about irregular heartbeat as a result of Atrial
Fibrillation, compared to three in five caregivers (60%) being concerned.

Nearly two in five caregivers (38%) believe that prior to their stroke, the
person in their care was concerned about high blood pressure as a result
of Atrial Fibrillation, compared to one-half caregivers (50%) being
concerned.

Nearly two in five caregivers (38%) believe that prior to their stroke, the
person in their care was concerned about heart palpitations as a result of
Atrial Fibrillation, compared to one in two caregivers (52%) being
concerned.
Condition Concern Ratings (Very/Somewhat Concerned)
Base: Total Respondents (n=203)
40
Irregular heartbeat
60
High blood pressure
38
Heart palpitations
38
50
52
Stroke
34
Heart attack
33
56
57
30
Difficulty breathing/shortness of breath
43
Chronic fatigue
23
Fainting
22
35
39
Patient
19
Sleep apnea
Caregiver
33
0
10
20
30
40
50
60
70
4a. Prior to (his/her) experiencing a stroke, how concerned was (he/she) in terms of experiencing any of the following as a result of
Atrial Fibrillation?
4b. Prior to (his/her) experiencing a stroke, how concerned were you personally in terms of (him/her) experiencing any of the
following as a result of Atrial Fibrillation?
84
Detailed Findings: Caregivers
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Caregivers observe a variety of negative life changes that
occur with the survivor in their care.

More than three in five caregivers (62%) indicate the survivor in their care
doesn’t go out as much since having a stroke.

One in two caregivers (51%) indicate the survivor in their care has
experienced depression since having a stroke.

One in four caregivers (25%) indicate the survivor in their care is afraid to
exercise or do strenuous activity since having a stroke.

However, one in three caregivers (33%) indicate the survivor in their care
is getting healthier since having a stroke, and one in six (16%) indicate
they do everything they can to learn about strokes..
Ways Patient’s Life Has Changed Since Having A Stroke
Base: Total Respondents (n=203)
Don't go out as much
62
He/she has experienced depression
51
Getting healthier – more exercise,
eating right, etc.
32
Afraid to exercise or do other
strenuous activity
25
Does everything he/she can to learn
about strokes
16
Joined a support group
9
Entire life has changed/loss of
independence
4
He/she has not made any changes
8
0
10
20
30
40
50
60
70
4c. To the best of your knowledge, how has (his/her) life changed, or what is (he/she) doing differently, since having a stroke?
85
Detailed Findings: Caregivers
www. russellresearch.com
Caregivers are mostly familiar with several different types of
stroke.

Three in four caregivers (76%) are very or somewhat familiar with ischemic
stroke.

Two in five caregivers (39%) are very familiar with ischemic stroke.

More than seven in ten caregivers (72%) are very or somewhat familiar
with hemorrhagic stroke.

Four in five caregivers (79%) are very or somewhat familiar with Transient
Ischemic Attack (TIA).
Stroke Type Familiarity
Base: Total Respondents (n=203)
100
10
9
14
18
8
90
80
Not at all
familiar
Not very
familiar
Somewhat
familiar
Very
familiar
13
70
60
38
37
38
50
40
76
79
72
30
20
39
34
Ischemic
Stroke
Hemorrhagic
Stroke
41
10
0
Transient Ischemic
Attack (TIA)
5a. How familiar are you with the term Ischemic Stroke?
5b. How familiar are you with the term Hemorrhagic Stroke?
5c. How familiar are you with the term Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA)?
86
Detailed Findings: Caregivers
www. russellresearch.com
Caregivers are more
hemorrhagic stroke.
likely
to
correctly
identify
a

More than two in three caregivers (68%) correctly identified an ischemic
stroke as being caused by an obstruction within a blood vessel supplying
blood to the brain.

Four in five caregivers (80%) correctly identified a hemorrhagic stroke as
being the result of a ruptured blood vessel that bleeds into the surrounding
brain.

One in eight caregivers (12%) incorrectly identified a hemorrhagic stroke
as being caused by an obstruction within a blood vessel supplying blood to
the brain.
Stroke Type Identification
Base: Total Respondents (n=203)
Obstruction Within Blood Vessel
Supplying Blood To The Brain
Ischemic stroke
68
Hemorrhagic
stroke
12
Transient
Ischemic Attack
(TIA)
6
Don't know/not
sure
20
Hemorrhagic
stroke
80
Ischemic stroke
5
Transient
Ischemic Attack
(TIA)
3
Don't know/not
sure
13
0
Ruptured Blood Vessel That
Bleeds Into Surrounding Brain
40
60
80
11
0
20
40
60
80
5d. To the best of your knowledge, which type of stroke occurs as a result of an obstruction (i.e., clot or blockage) within a blood
vessel supplying blood to the brain?
5e. To the best of your knowledge, which type of stroke occurs as a result of a weakened blood vessel that ruptures and bleeds into
the surrounding brain?
87
Detailed Findings: Caregivers
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Half of caregivers believe ischemic strokes are most
common in Atrial Fibrillation patients.

One in two caregivers (51%) believe ischemic stroke occurs most often in
people diagnosed with Atrial Fibrillation.

Five percent of caregivers think hemorrhagic stroke occurs most often in
people diagnosed with Atrial Fibrillation.

One in six caregivers (17%) think Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA) occurs
most often in people diagnosed with Atrial Fibrillation.

More than one in four caregivers (27%) don’t know what type of stroke
occurs most often in people diagnosed with Atrial Fibrillation.

Nearly nine in ten caregivers (86%) indicated they were aware there were
different types of strokes.
Stroke Type Believe Occurs Most Often In Atrial Fibrillation
Patients and Prior Awareness of Different Stroke Types
Base: Total Respondents (n=203)
Not
previously
aware,
14%
Don't know/
not sure, 27%
Ischemic stroke,
51%
Transient
Ischemic
Attack (TIA),
17%
Previously
aware, 86%
Hemorrhagic
stroke, 5%
5f. In AFib, which type of stroke do you think occurs more often?
5g. Prior to today, were you aware there were different types of strokes?
88
Detailed Findings: Caregivers
www. russellresearch.com
There is near universal concern that survivors will
experience additional strokes in the future.

Virtually all caregivers (96%) are very or somewhat concerned the survivor
in their care will experience an ischemic stroke in the future.

Virtually all caregivers (95%) are very or somewhat concerned the survivor
in their care will experience a Transient Ischemic Attack in the future.

Six in seven caregivers (86%) are very or somewhat concerned the
survivor in their care will experience a hemorrhagic stroke in the future.

Virtually all caregivers (95%) are very or somewhat interested in learning
more about how to reduce the reduce the risk of AFib-related ischemic
stroke.
Future Stroke Concern and Interest In Learning More About
Reducing The Risk Of Stroke
Base: Total Respondents (n=203)
Very/Somewhat Concerned
Very/Somewhat Interested
Ischemic stroke
96
Transient
Ischemic Attack
96
Transient
Ischemic Attack
95
Ischemic stroke
95
Hemorrhagic
stroke
Hemorrhagic
stroke
86
70
80
90
100
93
70
80
90
100
6a. How concerned are you that (he/she) might experience an AFib-related Ischemic Stroke in the future?
6b. How interested would you be in learning more about how to reduce the risk of an AFib-related Ischemic Stroke?
6c. How concerned are you that (he/she) might experience a Hemorrhagic Stroke in the future?
6d. How interested would you be in learning more about how to reduce the risk of a Hemorrhagic Stroke?
6e. How concerned are you that (he/she) might experience an AFib-related Transient Ischemic Attack (a mini-stroke) in the future?
6f. How interested would you be in learning more about how to reduce the risk of an AFib-related Transient Ischemic Attack (a mini-stroke)?
89
Detailed Findings: Caregivers
www. russellresearch.com
Loss of independence and physical function are believed to
be the primary concerns about having a stroke.

One in three caregivers (33%) believe the loss of independence most
concerns the survivor in their care about having a stroke.

Nearly one in five caregivers (18%) believe losing the ability to move, talk,
or some other physical function most concerns the survivor in their care
about having a stroke.

Nearly one in seven caregivers (13%) believe death most concerns the
survivor in their care about having a stroke.
Patient’s Primary Concern About Having A Stroke
Base: Total Respondents (n=203)
Loss of independence
33
Losing the ability to move, talk, or some
other physical function
18
Death
13
Being dependent on someone else
9
Financial burdens on him/her and his/her
family
7
No longer being able to enjoy activities or
hobbies
4
Feelings of isolation
3
Being unable to do his/her current job
2
He/she is not concerned with having a
stroke
7
No answer
2
0
10
20
30
40
6g. What do you think concerns (him/her) most about having a stroke?
90
Detailed Findings: Caregivers
www. russellresearch.com
Caregivers typically discuss the increased risk of AFibrelated stroke with physicians.

More than three in five caregivers (62%) have discussed the increased risk
of stroke due to Atrial Fibrillation with the physician treating the person in
their care.
Whether Physician Ever Discussed Increased Risk of Stroke Due
To Atrial Fibrillation With Caregiver
Base: Total Not Told Of Increased Stroke
Risk (n=124)
Not discussed
increased risk,
38%
Base: Total Respondents (n=203)
Discussed
increased risk,
62%
7b. Has (his/her) physician ever discussed with you the increased risk of stroke due to Atrial Fibrillation?
91
Detailed Findings: Caregivers
www. russellresearch.com
Virtually all caregivers are regularly going to doctor
appointments.

Two in three caregivers (66%) always accompany the survivor in their care
to doctor’s appointments.

Four in five caregivers (82%) accompany the survivor in their care to
doctor’s appointments always or most of the time.

Only five percent of caregivers rarely or never accompany the survivor in
their care to doctor’s appointments.
Frequency Accompany Patient To Doctor’s Appointments
Base: Total Respondents (n=203)
Rarely, 3%
Never, 2%
Occasionally,
12%
Most of the
time, 16%
Always, 66%
8a. How often do you typically go with (him/her) to (his/her) doctor’s appointments?
92
Detailed Findings: Caregivers
www. russellresearch.com
Caregivers present at doctor’s appointments indicate that
most conversations about AFib-related stroke and treatment
options are initiated by the physician.

On average, caregivers indicated more than three in four (78%)
conversations about treatments to reduce the risk of Atrial Fibrillation
related stroke are initiated by the physician.

On average, caregivers indicated nearly one in four (23%) conversations
about treatments to reduce the risk of Atrial Fibrillation related stroke are
initiated by the physician.
Atrial Fibrillation Stroke Treatment Conversation Initiation
Base: Total Attend Doctor’s Appointments Occasionally Or More Often (n=192)
Initiated by
patient, 23%
Initiated by
physician,
78%
8b. Thinking about conversations (he/she) has had with (his/her) physician about increased risk of AFib-related stroke and available
treatments to reduce the risk of AFib-related stroke, what percentage of the time would you say conversations are initiated by
(him/her) versus those initiated by (his/her) physician?
93
Detailed Findings: Caregivers
www. russellresearch.com
Most caregivers have seen physicians directly discuss
AFib-related stroke with the survivors in their care, however
not much else is done to further their education.

More than three in four caregivers who attend doctor visits (78%) indicate
the survivor’s physician has directly discussed Atrial Fibrillation and the
increased risk of stroke.

Nearly two in five caregivers who attend doctor visits (38%) indicate
physicians have given written materials to read regarding Atrial Fibrillation
or the increased risk of AFib-related stroke.

More than one in five caregivers who attend doctor visits (22%) indicate a
nurse, educator, or other professional in the physician’s office has
discussed their Atrial Fibrillation situation with the patient.
Ways Physician Has Discussed Specifics of Patient’s Atrial
Fibrillation & Increased Risk Of Atrial Fibrillation-Related Stroke
Base: Total Attend Doctor’s Appointments Occasionally Or More Often (n=192)
Patient's physician discussed situation with patient
directly
78
Gave patient written material to read
38
A nurse/educator/other professional in office
discussed their Atrial Fibrillation situation with
patient
22
Directed patient to associations/websites related
specifically to heart conditions/AFib-related stroke
7
Patient was given educational CDs or DVDs
4
Directed to pharmaceutical company's website
with information on medications to reduce risk of
AFib-related stroke
3
Patient was directed to download an app for a
mobile phone, tablet computer or other device
3
Directed patient to a pharmaceutical company's
website that focused on the condition
2
Only prescribed medication
2
None/not discussed
5
0
10
20
30
40
50
60
70
80
8c. To the best of your knowledge, in which, if any, ways has (his/her) physician discussed the specifics of (his/her) atrial fibrillation
and increased risk of AFib-related stroke?
94
Detailed Findings: Caregivers
www. russellresearch.com
Caregivers usually have conducted their own research on
AFib-related strokes and/or Atrial Fibrillation, using a
variety of sources to educate themselves.

Seven in ten caregivers (69%) have personally sought out information
related to Atrial Fibrillation or AFib-related strokes.

Of caregivers who have researched Atrial Fibrillation, more than three in
four (77%) obtained information from an association or website related
specifically to heart conditions or AFib-related stroke.

Of caregivers who have researched Atrial Fibrillation, more than one in two
(55%) have received information directly from the survivor’s physician.

Of caregivers who have researched Atrial Fibrillation, more than one in two
(54%) looked at written materials.

Of caregivers who have researched Atrial Fibrillation, three in ten (29%)
have received information from a nurse, educator, or other professional.
Whether Researched And Where Sought Information On Atrial
Fibrillation-Related Strokes And/Or Atrial Fibrillation
Base: Total Respondents (n=203)
Base: Total Have Researched (n=141)
From an association/websites
related specifically to heart
conditions/AFib-related stroke
Not researched
Atrial Fibrillationrelated strokes/
Atrial Fibrillation,
31%
Researched Atrial
Fibrillation-related
strokes/Atrial
Fibrillation, 69%
77
From patient's physician
directly
55
From written materials
54
From a nurse, educator, or
other professional
29
On a pharmaceutical
company's website
13
On an app for a mobile
phone, tablet computer or
other device
On a social media website
Educational CD or DVDs
11
8
5
0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80
9a. Have you personally ever researched or sought out information on AFib-related strokes and/or Atrial Fibrillation?
9b. Where specifically did you look for information on Atrial Fibrillation and/or AFib-related strokes?
95
Detailed Findings: Caregivers
www. russellresearch.com
Caregivers are generally satisfied with information provided
by physicians.

Nearly one in two caregivers who received information from physicians
(47%) were very satisfied with the information.

Six in seven caregivers who received information from physicians (87%)
were very or somewhat satisfied with the information.
Level Of Satisfaction With Information Provided By Physician
Base: Total Seeking Info on AFib Through Physician Directly (n=78)
Not at all
satisfied, 4%
Not very
satisfied,
9%
Very satisfied,
47%
Somewhat
satisfied,
40%
9c. Overall, how satisfied were you with the information provided by (his/her) physician about (his/her) condition and increased risk of
AFib-related stroke?
96
Detailed Findings: Caregivers
www. russellresearch.com
Risks associated with and without treatment is the most
common topic of conversation between caregivers and
physicians.

Seven in ten caregivers who have discussed AFib-related stroke with the
survivor’s doctor (71%) talked about the risk of having AFib-related stroke
with and without medication.

One in two caregivers who have discussed AFib-related stroke with the
survivor’s doctor (51%) talked about the symptoms of AFib-related stroke.

Nearly one in two caregivers who have discussed AFib-related stroke with
the survivor’s doctor (47%) talked about actions to take if witnessing or
experiencing symptoms of AFib-related stroke.

Nearly one in two caregivers who have discussed AFib-related stroke with
the survivor’s doctor (47%) talked about the impact of AFib-related stroke
on everyday life.
Topics of Discussion Between Patient and Physician Regarding
Atrial Fibrillation-Related Stroke
Base: Total Discussed Atrial Fibrillation-Related Stroke With Doctor (n=154)
His/her risk of having AFib-related
stroke with and without medication
71
Symptoms of AFib-related stroke
51
Actions to take if witnessing or
experiencing symptoms of AFibrelated stroke
47
Impact of AFib-related stroke on
everyday life
47
None of the above
14
0
10
20
30
40
50
60
70
80
10. Has (his/her) physician ever discussed with (him/her) any of the following regarding AFib-related stroke?
97
Detailed Findings: Caregivers
www. russellresearch.com
Caregivers believe reduced risk and minimizing side effects
are patients’ top priorities in treatment.

The most important Atrial Fibrillation treatment qualities to patients are that
a treatment reduces the risk of a stroke caused by a blood clot in the brain
(26%) and causes the least side effects (25%).

Being affordable is of lesser importance to patients, with only one-fifth of
caregivers (20%) indicating it was the patient’s first or second most
important treatment quality.
Patient’s Most Important Qualities In Treatment Designed To
Reduce Risk Of Stroke From Atrial Fibrillation
Base: Total Discussed Increased Stroke Risk With Doctor (n=125)
Most
2nd Most
Total
Using a treatment that reduces the risk of a
stroke caused by a blood clot in the brain
26
23
49
Using a treatment that causes the least
side effects
25
23
48
Finding a treatment that is easy to use
(e.g. once a day, etc.)
19
Using a treatment that minimizes the risk of
a stroke caused by a bleed in the brain
21
13
Being affordable
9
16
11
40
29
20
No answer 3 4 6
Don't know 12 3
-
10
20
30
40
50
60
11a. When discussing treatment options to reduce the risk of a stroke in atrial fibrillation with (his/her) doctor, which of the following is
most important to (him/her)?
11b. And when discussing treatment options to reduce the risk of stroke in atrial fibrillation with (his/her) doctor, which of the following
is second most important to (him/her)?
98
Detailed Findings: Caregivers
www. russellresearch.com
While equally important to patients, caregivers first and
foremost place importance on reducing the risk of stroke.

Nearly one-half of caregivers who have discussed treatment options with
the patient’s physician (46%) indicate the most important quality in
treatment is reducing the risk of a stroke caused by a blood clot in the
brain, and seven in ten (69%) place it within the top two most important
qualities.

One in six caregivers who have discussed treatment options with the
patient’s physician (17%) indicate the most important quality in treatment is
using a treatment which causes the least side effects, and nearly one-half
(46%) place it within the top two most important qualities.

Being affordable is not of primary importance to caregivers, with only eight
percent indicating it was their first or second most important treatment
quality.
Caregiver’s Most Important Qualities In Treatment Designed To
Reduce Risk Of Stroke From Atrial Fibrillation
Base: Total Discussed Atrial Fibrillation-Related Stroke With Doctor (n=154)
Most
Using a treatment that reduces the risk of a
stroke caused by a blood clot in the brain
2nd Most
Total
46
Using a treatment which causes the least
side effects
17
29
Finding a treatment that is easy to use
(once a day, etc.)
13
21
Using a treatment that minimizes the risk of
a stroke caused by a bleed in the brain
14
18
Being affordable
23
69
46
34
32
44 8
Have not been included in conversations
22 3
related to treatment options
No answer 22 3
Don't know 11 2
-
10
20
30
40
50
60
70
80
14a. When you are discussing treatment options to reduce the risk of stroke in atrial fibrillation with (his/her) doctor, which of the
following is most important to you?
14b. And when you are discussing treatment options to reduce the risk of stroke in atrial fibrillation with (his/her) doctor, which of the
following is second most important to you?
99
Detailed Findings: Caregivers
www. russellresearch.com
Most caregivers indicate the person in their care has taken
medication to reduce risk of AFib-related stroke.

More than nine in ten caregivers who have discussed Atrial Fibrillationrelated stroke with a physician (92%) indicate that the physician has had
the person in their care take medication to reduce their risk of AFib-related
stroke.

Three in four caregivers who indicate the person in their care has taken
medication to reduce their risk of AFib-related stroke (75%) indicate the
survivor had been prescribed an oral anticoagulant.

Nearly two in five caregivers who indicate the person in their care has
taken medication to reduce their risk of AFib-related stroke (38%) indicate
the survivor had been prescribed an antiplatelet.
Whether Patient Ever Taken Medications And Types Prescribed
To Reduce Risk Of Atrial Fibrillation-Related Stroke
Base: Total Discussed Atrial FibrillationRelated Stroke With Doctor (n=154)
Not taken
medication, 8%
Base: Total Have Taken Medication (n=142)
Oral anticoagulant
75
Antiplatelet
Taken medication,
92%
38
Don't know
5
No answer
5
0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80
12a. Has (his/her) physician ever had (him/her) take medications to reduce the risk of AFib-related stroke?
12b. To the best of your knowledge, what type(s) of treatment options has (his/her) physician prescribed (him/her) in order to reduce
the risk of AFib-related stroke?
100
Detailed Findings: Caregivers
www. russellresearch.com
Caregivers predominantly indicate those in their care are
compliant with the prescribed treatment.

Nine in ten caregivers of survivors who have been prescribed mediation
(89%) indicate the patient regularly takes their prescribed treatment to
reduce their risk of AFib-related stroke.

Seven percent of caregivers of survivors who have been prescribed
mediation indicate the patient stopped taking their prescribed treatment to
reduce their risk of AFib-related stroke.
Whether Patient Regularly Takes Prescribed Treatment
Base: Total Have Taken Medication (n=142)
Patient does not
regularly take
prescribed
treatment, 4%
Patient has stopped
taking prescribed
treatment, 7%
Patient regularly
takes prescribed
treatment, 89%
12c. To the best of your knowledge, does (he/she) regularly take the treatment to reduce the risk of AFib-related stroke prescribed by
(his/her) doctor?
101
Detailed Findings: Caregivers
www. russellresearch.com
A majority of caregivers who’ve discussed AFib with a
physician covered the symptoms, impact, and actions to
take.

Three in five caregivers who have discussed increased stroke risk with the
patient’s physician (60%) have discussed the impact of AFib-related stroke
on everyday life.

Three in five caregivers who have discussed increased stroke risk with the
patient’s physician (59%) have discussed the symptoms of AFib-related
stroke.

Nearly three in five caregivers who have discussed increased stroke risk
with the patient’s physician (58%) have discussed the actions to take if
witnessing symptoms of AFib-related stroke.
Topics of Discussion Between Caregiver and Physician
Regarding Atrial Fibrillation-Related Stroke
Base: Total Discussed Increased Stroke Risk With Doctor (n=125)
Impact of AFib-related stroke on
everyday life
60
Symptoms of AFib-related stroke
59
Actions to take if witnessing
symptoms of AFib-related stroke
58
None of the above
25
0
10
20
30
40
50
60
70
80
13. Has (his/her) physician ever discussed with you directly any of the following regarding stroke?
102
Detailed Findings: Caregivers
www. russellresearch.com
Caregivers almost universally believe they can detect the
most common stroke symptoms.

More than nine in ten caregivers (92%) feel they are able to describe the
common symptoms of stroke.
Few caregivers know that women at are at higher risk of
Atrial Fibrillation-related stroke.

Three in ten caregivers (30%) believe women have a higher risk of
experiencing an AFib-related stroke.

One in four caregivers (25%) believe men have a higher risk of
experiencing an AFib-related stroke.

Nearly one-half of caregivers (46%) do not believe either gender has a
higher risk of experiencing an AFib-related stroke.
Gender Believe Has Higher Risk Of Atrial Fibrillation-Related
Stroke & Whether Able To Describe Most Common Symptoms
Base: Total Respondents (n=203)
Not able to
describe, 8%
Men, 25%
No difference,
46%
Able to
describe, 92%
Women, 30%
15a. Who do you think has a higher risk of experiencing an AFib-related stroke?
15b. If asked, do you believe that you would be able to describe to someone the most common symptoms of a stroke?
103
Detailed Findings: Caregivers
www. russellresearch.com
Speaking and loss of movement are the most widely
thought symptoms of stroke.

Virtually all caregivers (95%) believe sudden trouble speaking is a
symptom of someone experiencing a stroke.

More than nine in ten caregivers (92%) believe sudden numbness/
tingling/weakness/loss of movement in face/arm/leg, especially on one
side of the body is a symptom of someone experiencing a stroke.

Nearly nine in ten caregivers (88%) believe sudden problems with walking
or balance is a symptom of someone experiencing a stroke.

Nearly nine in ten caregivers (88%) believe sudden confusion or trouble
understanding simple statements is a symptom of someone experiencing a
stroke.

More than three in four caregivers (77%) believe sudden vision changes is
a symptom of someone experiencing a stroke.
Symptoms Of Stroke
Base: Total Respondents (n=203)
95
Sudden trouble speaking
Sudden numbness/tingling/weakness/loss of movement
in face/arm/leg, especially on only one side of body
92
Sudden problems with walking or balance
88
Sudden confusion or trouble understanding simple
statements
88
77
Sudden vision changes
A sudden, severe headache that is different from past
headaches
70
Sudden general weakness
69
67
Sudden dizziness
56
Sudden face and limb pain
Sudden nausea
37
Sudden shortness of breath
37
Sudden palpitations
36
23
Sudden chest pain
0
10
20
30
40
50
60
70
80
90 100
16a. To the best of your knowledge, which, if any, of the following are symptoms of someone experiencing a stroke?
104
Detailed Findings: Caregivers
www. russellresearch.com
Most caregivers believe there are a wide range of negative
outcomes after experiencing a stroke.

More than nine in ten caregivers believe paralysis (93%), an inability to
speak (92%), memory loss (92%), and balance issues (92%) are possible
outcomes after having a stroke.

Nine in ten caregivers (90%) believe death is a possible outcome after
having a stroke.

Nearly nine in ten caregivers believe recurrent stroke (88%), weakness
(88%), inability to drive (87%), and weakness (86%) are possible
outcomes after having a stroke.
Potential Outcomes After Having A Stroke
Base: Total Respondents (n=203)
93
92
92
92
90
88
87
86
81
80
79
Paralysis
Inability to speak (aphasia)
Memory loss
Balance issues
Death
Recurrent stroke
Inability to drive
Weakness
Problems thinking (cognitive challenges)
Vision loss
Difficulty with swallowing (dysphagia)
71
67
65
Fatigue
Inability to control urine or bowels (incontinence)
Tight/stiff muscles and an inability to control…
57
55
54
54
53
53
Intimacy and sexual challenges
Impulse control
Sleep disorders
Pain
Seizures
Sudden/unpredicted episodes of crying/laughing…
23
Chest pain
0
10
20
30
40
50
60
70
80
90
100
16b. To the best of your knowledge, which, if any, of the following are possible outcomes after a stroke?
105
Detailed Findings: Caregivers
www. russellresearch.com
Physical, tangible, and financial aid would all be viewed as
helpful to caregivers.

Seven out of ten caregivers (70%) would find physical help useful in
helping provide care.

More than three in five caregivers would find home modifications (63%),
financial assistance (63%) and respite care (62%) useful in helping provide
care.
Aid Would Find Helpful In Providing Care To Patient
Base: Total Respondents (n=203)
Physical help
70
Home modifications
63
Financial assistance
63
Respite care
62
Equipment
56
0
10
20
30
40
50
60
70
80
90
100
16c. Which of the following would you find useful in helping provide care?
106
Detailed Findings: Caregivers
www. russellresearch.com
Caregivers widely believe that prior to experiencing a
stroke, the person in their care would have adhered to
treatment and physician visits, regardless of cost. However,
less agree that they learned all they could have about their
condition.

Nine in ten caregivers (89%) believe the survivor in their care would agree
that it would not matter if the treatment to reduce the risk of AFib-related
stroke had to be taken once or twice a day.

Five in six caregivers (84%) believe the survivor in their care would agree
that if a treatment that reduced risk of AFib-related stroke required regular
visits to their physician, they would have done it.

One-half of caregivers (49%) feel their patient in their care would agree
that they sought to find out everything they could about Atrial Fibrillation
and AFib-related stroke risk.
Patient Atrial Fibrillation Statement Agreement
Base: Total Respondents (n=203)
If treatment reduces the risk of an AFib-related
stroke caused by a blood clot in the brain, it
would not matter whether they had to take it
once or twice in a day
89
If a treatment that reduced risk of AFib-related
stroke required regular visits to physician,
he/she would have done it
84
Would do whatever his/her physician tells
him/her in order to reduce the risk of an AFibrelated stroke
79
The cost of medication is not a consideration if
it reduces his/her risk of having an AFib-related
stroke
78
Managing the irregular heart beat was most
important
74
Would have liked more information to take
charge of Atrial Fibrillation and learn about
reducing the risk of an AFib-related stroke
69
Thought treating an irregular heartbeat was
more important than preventing a blood clot
55
Sought to find out everything he/she could
about Atrial Fibrillation and reducing AFibrelated stroke risk
49
0
Agree
Strongly/
Somewhat
10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90 100
17. Thinking about the person who you care for, how much do you think (he/she) would have agreed or disagreed with each of the
following statements prior to experiencing a stroke?
107
Detailed Findings: Caregivers
www. russellresearch.com
Caregivers would have near universally encouraged and
had their loved ones adhere to treatment that would reduce
the risk of AFib-related stroke. There is also regret in not
having more information.

Virtually all caregivers (97%) would have encouraged their patient to follow
a treatment if it required regular visits to their physician.

Nearly all caregivers (96%) believe the person in their care should do what
the physician tells them to do in order to reduce the risk of AFib-related
stroke.

Nine in ten caregivers (89%) would have liked to have had more
information about Atrial Fibrillation and learned more about AFib-related
stroke.
Caregiver Atrial Fibrillation Statement Agreement
Base: Total Respondents (n=203)
If a treatment required regular visits to the
physician, I would have encouraged
him/her to do it
97
I believe he/she should do what his/her
physician tells him/her in order to reduce
the risk of an AFib-related stroke
96
I would like to have had more information
to help him/her take charge of his/her
Atrial Fibrillation and learn about reducing
the risk of an AFib-related stroke
89
When he/she was initially diagnosed with
Atrial Fibrillation, I tried to find out
everything I could about it and reducing
AFib-related stroke risk
81
Treating an irregular heartbeat is more
important than preventing a blood clot
56
Cost is an important consideration in
whether he/she will take his/her
medication
47
0
Agree
Strongly/
Somewhat
10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90 100
17b. How much do you personally agree or disagree with each of the following statements regarding (his/her) Atrial Fibrillation prior
to experiencing an AFib-related stroke?
108
Detailed Findings: Caregivers
www. russellresearch.com
There is little awareness of the impact of AFib-related
strokes.

More than one in five caregivers (22%) are aware that AFib-related strokes
are nearly twice as likely to be fatal or disabling as non-AFib-related
strokes.

One in four caregivers (25%) are aware that women with Atrial Fibrillation
have a higher risk of ischemic stroke than men.

Less than one-half of caregivers (44%) are aware that you can have 5
times greater risk for stroke if you are living with untreated Atrial
Fibrillation.
Caregiver Atrial Fibrillation Fact Awareness
Base: Total Respondents (n=203)
Some Atrial Fibrillation patients may not have
any noticeable symptoms
61
By taking an oral anticoagulant (“blood
thinner”), the risk of AFib-related stroke may
be reduced by about two thirds
56
If I am in Atrial Fibrillation only sometimes
(intermittent), I may still be at risk for stroke
55
People living with Atrial Fibrillation are at risk
for stroke even if they only experience
occasional irregular heartbeats
Physicians assess a patient's individual AFibrelated stroke/bleeding risk when considering
treatment options for stroke risk reduction
53
52
The majority of AFib-related strokes are
caused by a blood clot in the brain
51
You can have 5 times greater risk for stroke if
you are living with untreated Atrial Fibrillation
44
Women with Atrial Fibrillation have a higher
risk for ischemic stroke than men
25
AFib-related strokes are nearly twice as likely
to be fatal or disabling as non-AFib-related
strokes
Previously
Aware
22
0
10
20
30
40
50
60
70
80
18. I will now read you a list of facts about Atrial Fibrillation. Please tell me whether you were previously aware or not previously of
these facts.
109
Detailed Findings: Caregivers
www. russellresearch.com
Caregivers believe the people in their care underestimated
how bad experiencing a stroke could be to them.

Nearly nine in ten caregivers (88%) think the survivor in their care would
agree that their life has not been the same since experiencing an AFibrelated stroke.

Five in six caregivers (86%) believe the survivor in their care would agree
that experiencing a stroke was worse than they had imagined.

Less than three in five caregivers (55%) believe the survivor in their care
would agree that having a stroke was their biggest fear.

Three in four caregivers (74%) believe the survivor in their care would
agree that there was not enough information on reducing the risk of AFibrelated stroke provided to the caregiver when the survivor was initially
diagnosed with Atrial Fibrillation.
Patient Stroke Statement Agreement
Base: Total Respondents (n=203)
His/her life has not been the same since he/she
experienced an AFib-related stroke
88
Experiencing a stroke was worse than he/she
had imagined
86
Since he/she experienced an AFib-related
stroke, he/she sometimes feels like he/she is a
burden to others
85
He/she wishes he/she had known more about
reducing the risk of an AFib-related stroke prior
to experiencing a stroke
76
There was not enough information on reducing
the risk of AFib-related stroke provided to me
when he/she was initially diagnosed with Atrial
Fibrillation
74
Experiencing an AFib-related stroke made
him/her more focused on improving his/her
health
68
He/she felt he/she knew enough about reducing
my risk of AFib-related stroke after being
diagnosed with Atrial Fibrillation
57
Agree
Strongly/
Somewhat
55
Having a stroke was his/her biggest fear
0
10
20
30
40
50
60
70
80
90 100
19. Thinking about the person who you care for, how much do you think (he/she) would agree or disagree with each of the following
statements?
110
Detailed Findings: Caregivers
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While caregivers universally try to make the lives better of
the survivors they care for, it requires more work than they
thought and most would like more support and information.

Virtually all caregivers (98%) agree that since their patient experienced an
AFib-related stroke, they have tried to have them focus on improving their
health.

Nine in ten caregivers (91%) agree that their lives have not been the same
since the person in their care experienced an AFib-related stroke.

Six in seven caregivers (86%) couldn’t have imagined the amount of work
it takes to care for a stroke survivor.

Five in six caregivers (83%) wish they had more support and information to
take care of the survivor in their care.

Four in five caregivers (81%) wish they had more information on Atrial
Fibrillation and Stroke.
Caregiver Stroke Statement Agreement
Base: Total Respondents (n=203)
Since he/she experienced an AFibrelated stroke, I have tried to have
him/her focus on improving his/her health
98
Having an AFib-related stroke has
changed him/her in many unexpected
ways (physically, emotionally, mentally,
etc.)
91
My life has not been the same since
he/she experienced an AFib-related
stroke
91
I couldn't have imagined the amount of
work it takes to care for a stroke survivor
86
I wish I had more support and
information to take care of him/her after
having experienced an AFib-related
stroke
83
I wish I had more information on Atrial
Fibrillation and Stroke
81
I was not aware of the risk of stroke in
Atrial Fibrillation
70
0
Agree
Strongly/
Somewhat
10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90 100
19b. How much do you personally agree or disagree with each of the following statements?
111
Detailed Findings: Caregivers
www. russellresearch.com
Caregivers see a physical and emotional toll taken on the
lives of survivors.

Three in four caregivers (75%) indicate the survivor in their care can no
longer drive and needs assistance with daily activities.

Nearly three in four caregivers (73%) indicate the survivor in their care
feels like they are a burden on their family.

Two in three caregivers (65%) indicate the survivor in their care feels
isolated.
Patient’s Life Changes Since Stroke
Base: Total Agree Patient’s Life Has Changed (n=179)
He/she can no longer drive
75
He/she needs assistance
with daily activities
75
He/she feels he/she is a
burden on his/her family
73
He/she can no longer do
activities or hobbies that
bring him/her joy
72
He/she feels isolated
65
He/she had to change
his/her living arrangements
49
It has been a financial
burden on him/her
46
He/she had to give up
his/her job or reduce his/her
hours
34
0
10
20
30
40
50
60
70
80
90
100
20. You had earlier mentioned that (his/her) life has not been the same since experiencing an AFib-related stroke. In which, if any, of
the following ways has (his/her) life changed?
112
Detailed Findings: Caregivers
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A majority of caregivers feel overwhelmed and have less
time for themselves, and many have a different relationship
with the survivor.

More than nine in ten caregivers (92%) feel they have a lot more
responsibilities since becoming a caregiver.

Two in three caregivers (66%) don’t have as much time to do activities or
hobbies that bring them joy.

Three in five caregivers (60%) feel like they have more to do than they can
handle.

Nearly three in five caregivers (56%) feel more socially isolated.

More than two in three caregivers (68%) feel their relationship is different
with their patient since they suffered a stroke.
Ways Caregiver’s Life Has Changed Since Patient’s Stroke
Base: Total Respondents (n=203)
Have a lot more responsibilities
92
Our relationship is different than it
used to be
68
Don't have as much time to do
activities or hobbies that bring me joy
66
Feel like I have more to do than I can
handle
60
Feel more socially isolated
56
My financial situation is not as strong
50
I've had to change my living
arrangements
34
Had to give up my job or reduce my
hours
33
Fight more with him/her
31
None of the above
1
0
10
20
30
40
50
60
70
80
90 100
20b. In which, if any, of the following ways has your life changed since becoming a caregiver to a stroke survivor?
113
Detailed Findings: Caregivers
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Caregiver Demographic Profile
Total Respondents
Caregiver Gender
Male
Female
Mean Age
Patient Gender
Male
Female
Relationship To Patient
Your spouse
A family member
A friend
Paid caregiver
Devices Own
Desktop computer
Laptop or netbook computer
Mobile/cell phone
iPad or other tablet
E-reader
Devices Use To Access Health
Information
Desktop computer
Laptop or netbook computer
Mobile/cell phone
iPad or other tablet
E-reader
None of the above
Total
(203)
%
16
84
58.6
57
43
44
44
4
4
66
81
86
56
29
52
61
29
38
4
1
Total Respondents
Total
(203)
%
Marital Status
Married
Not Married (net)
75
24
Education
No College (net)
College (net)
12
87
Employment Status
Employed (net)
Not Employed (net)
38
61
Median Household Income
$60.7
Ethnic Background
African-American
Asian/Pacific Islander
Caucasian
Hispanic/Latino
Mixed ethnic background
4
3
88
2
1
Type Of Community
Urban
Suburban
Rural
17
55
28
Census Region
Northeast
South
Midwest
West
25
33
26
17
114