Grant: ICRH Emerging Network Grants - Full Application

Atrial fibrillation is an irregular beating of the heart and is one of the most common causes of stroke in Canada. Fortunately, medical research, has produced several treatments, including blood thinners and blood pressure lowering drugs, which can reduce the risk of stroke by over 75%. However; there are challenges which prevent Canadians from benefiting from this research. The CSPIN network seeks to link world-class atrial fibrillation a stroke researchers from across Canada so that they may share not only their ideas and expertise, but so that they may conduct collaborative research in an efficient way. The network will develop at least 7 research studies; including: 1) A study using new technology to identify people with silent atrial fibrillation, so that they may get the appropriate treatment; 2) A study to ensure that patients who visit their family doctor or a pharmacy with atrial fibrillation get the treatment that they need; 3) Two studies to see if blood thinners can prevent stroke in patients with pacemakers and in patients who have had a heart procedure to treat atrial fibrillation, 4) A study to see if patients having open-heart surgery have fewer strokes if the surgeon removes a small piece of redundant tissue, 5) A study to determine if blood thinners can prevent a repeat stroke and 6) A study to determine if blood thinners can prevent memory loss and dementia among younger patients with atrial fibrillation. This network will involve over a thirty world-class physician researcher from Halifax to Victoria and will also involve nurses, public health individuals and pharmacists. The network will work with governments and other groups to develop economical, sustainable programs, so that Canadians can benefit directly from the results of this work. The network will also invest significant resources to help attract and train the next generation of Canadian stroke researchers; making Canada a leader in this field for years to come.