Comorbidity-dependent Atrial Fibrillation Burden modified by Early Ablation and Systematic Treatment (Short: CAFBEAST)
CAFBEAST is a prospective, international sub-study embedded within the large, international clinical trial EASThigh-AFNET 11 led by consortium partner AFNET (Atrial Fibrillation Network) – Kompetenznetz Vorhofflimmern e.V. as a sponsor.
The parent-trial follows participants over time to better understand different treatment strategies for Atrial Fibrillation (AF), including early rhythm control with possible early catheter ablation and usual care.
CAFBEAST aims to better understand how AF burden develops and changes under these different treatment approaches, particularly in patients with a higher risk due to multiple coexisting health conditions.
The primary objective of the study is to quantify the effect of early catheter ablation on AF burden in patients with recently diagnosed AF and a high comorbidity burden.
In addition, the study will:
- Measure AF burden in patients receiving usual care
- Describe how AF burden changes over time in different patient groups
- Investigate whether reducing AF burden is linked to fewer cardiovascular events
- Identify AF burden levels that may help guide treatment decisions
- Evaluate how AF burden and treatment strategies affect overall outcomes
- Assess the economic impact of using AF burden monitoring in clinical decision-making
All participants will be provided with a CE-marked smartwatch from Withings, which continuously monitors heart rhythm using a non-invasive technology called photoplethysmography (PPG).
Potentially eligible individuals will be identified and contacted through the EASThigh-AFNET 11 sites. Further information will follow over time.
