CHADS2-VASc Score Calculator
Use this calculator to determine a patient's CHADS2-VASc score, which estimates the risk of stroke in individuals with non-valvular atrial fibrillation.
Your CHADS2-VASc Score: " + score + "
" + "" + interpretation + "" + "Note: This calculator provides a risk assessment based on the CHADS2-VASc criteria and should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment."; }Understanding the CHADS2-VASc Score
The CHADS2-VASc score is a widely used clinical prediction rule for estimating the risk of stroke in patients with non-valvular atrial fibrillation (AF). Atrial fibrillation is an irregular and often rapid heart rate that can lead to blood clots in the heart. If these clots travel to the brain, they can cause a stroke. The CHADS2-VASc score helps healthcare providers decide whether a patient with AF needs anticoagulation therapy (blood thinners) to reduce their stroke risk.
Why is the CHADS2-VASc Score Important?
Identifying patients at high risk of stroke is crucial for preventing this debilitating condition. Anticoagulation therapy significantly reduces stroke risk in AF patients, but it also carries a risk of bleeding. The CHADS2-VASc score provides a systematic way to balance these risks and benefits, guiding personalized treatment decisions.
CHADS2-VASc Criteria and Scoring
The score is calculated by assigning points for specific risk factors. Each letter in CHADS2-VASc represents a risk factor:
- C – Congestive Heart Failure (CHF): 1 point
- H – Hypertension (High Blood Pressure): 1 point
- A – Age ≥ 75 years: 2 points
- D – Diabetes Mellitus: 1 point
- S – Prior Stroke, Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA), or Thromboembolism: 2 points
- V – Vascular Disease (e.g., prior myocardial infarction, peripheral artery disease, aortic plaque): 1 point
- A – Age 65-74 years: 1 point
- Sc – Sex category (Female): 1 point
The maximum possible score is 9 points.
How to Use the Calculator
To use the calculator, simply check the boxes corresponding to the risk factors that apply to the patient. Once all relevant factors are selected, click the "Calculate CHADS2-VASc Score" button to get the total score and a general interpretation.
Interpreting Your Score
The CHADS2-VASc score helps categorize stroke risk:
- Score 0: Indicates a very low risk of stroke. For males with a score of 0, antithrombotic therapy may not be necessary.
- Score 1: Indicates a low risk of stroke. For males with a score of 1, oral anticoagulation or aspirin, or no antithrombotic therapy, may be considered based on individual patient factors and shared decision-making. For females with a score of 1 (due to female sex being the only risk factor), the risk is also very low, similar to a male with a score of 0.
- Score ≥ 2: Indicates a moderate to high risk of stroke. Oral anticoagulation is generally recommended for these patients to significantly reduce their stroke risk.
Important Disclaimer
This CHADS2-VASc score calculator is intended for informational purposes only and should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Medical decisions, especially regarding anticoagulation therapy, must always be made by a qualified healthcare provider in consultation with the patient, considering all individual health factors and the latest clinical guidelines. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.