Differences in oral anticoagulant therapy for non-valvular atrial fibrillation between Italian and Western Europe Countries. The GLORIA-AF Phase III experience

Background: Despite the association of atrial fibrillation (AF) with thrombo-embolic events, oral anticoagulation (OAC) use is still un- satisfactory. The aim of this study was to compare the baseline characteristics of patients receiving oral anticoagulants (OAC) be- tween Italy and the other Western European Countries (OWE), with emphasis on the role of age (0.10). Results: Between 2014 and 2016, 1378 and 7757 eligible patients were enrolled from Italy and OWE, respectively. No differences existed in age, gender and CHA DS -VASc score (3.3±1.5 22 vs 3.3±1.5; SD=-0.014). OAC (84.0 vs 90.6%, SD=-0.20) and NOACs (54.9 vs 65.8%, SD=-0.22) were less used in Italy than in OWE countries. Among NOACs users, age (74.4±9.3 vs 72.0±9.7 years; SD=0.25) was higher in Italy. Low doses of NOACs were more often prescribed to elderly Italian patients than to their OWE counterparts. The use of beta-blockers and statins were higher in OWE, and that of PPI in Italy. Conclusions: GLORIA-AF Phase III results show relevant differ- ences in OAC use between Italy and OWE. Older Italian NOACs users more often receive the lower dosages of the drugs; moreover, the prevalence of those not taking OAC is still high.