Atrial fibrillation patients saw 69% lower risk with common blood thinners

A large randomized trial suggests that newer blood thinners can significantly reduce serious cardiovascular events in people with atrial fibrillation who face an intermediate risk of stroke.

The findings come from the SINGLE-AF trial, presented during a Hot Line session at ESC Congress 2026 and published at the same time in the New England Journal of Medicine . Compared with receiving no anticoagulant therapy, treatment with oral anticoagulants was associated with fewer adverse clinical events.

A Gray Area in Atrial Fibrillation Treatment

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is a common heart rhythm disorder that can increase the risk of blood clots and stroke. ESC Guidelines strongly recommend oral anticoagulants for people with AF who are considered at high risk of stroke. For those at intermediate risk, however, the recommendation is less definitive, and anticoagulant treatment is currently listed as something that should be considered.