Haas S, et al. - Researchers explored the key issues that influenced the choice between non-vitamin K antagonist oral anticoagulants (NOACs) and vitamin K antagonists (VKAs) use for stroke prevention in patients with newly diagnosed atrial fibrillation. Data from 24,137 patients who started taking AC ± antiplatelet (AP) therapy (NOAC 51.4%; VKA 48.6%) between April 2013 and August 2016 were analyzed. A clear heterogeneity was seen in stroke prevention strategies globally. Findings revealed physicians preferred NOACs in patients with a lower stroke risk, as well as in the elderly and patients with acute coronary syndrome. By contrast, patients with permanent AF, moderate-to-severe kidney disease, heart failure, vascular disease, diabetes and with concomitant AP were preferentially prescribed VKAs. These indicate an individualized approach to stroke prevention. Country, enrolment year, care setting at diagnosis, AF type, concomitant AP and kidney disease all constituted the most significant predictors of AC therapy.