chads2vasc calculator Guide & Clinical Interpretation
A concise handbook for clinicians and patients: indications, scoring items, interpretation and evidence of the chads2vasc calculator (CHA2DS2‑VASc). Head to the homepage to calculate your score.
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1) Indications & clinical contexts
CHA2DS2‑VASc is used to stratify ischemic stroke risk in non‑valvular AF adults across outpatient follow‑up, inpatient evaluation and disease management. Not recommended for routine use without AF.
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2) Scoring items
Age ≥75 years
+2Age 65–74 years
+1Female sex
+1Hypertension / Heart failure / Diabetes / Vascular disease
each +1Prior stroke / TIA
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3) How to use this calculator
- 1On the homepage, click “Start now” or the top button to jump to the calculator.
- 2Choose age, sex and medical history as prompted, then click “Calculate risk score”.
- 3Review the total and risk category; check “Recommendations” and “Notes”.
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4) Interpretation & clinical notes
0 · Low risk
Anticoagulation generally not indicated
1 · Low–moderate risk
Assess with individual factors and bleeding risk
2–3 · Moderate risk
Most patients should discuss anticoagulation
4–5 · High–moderate risk
Anticoagulation usually recommended
≥6 · High risk
Strongly recommend anticoagulation and close follow‑up
Scores do not equal treatment plans; consider bleeding risk, comorbidities and patient preferences under clinician judgment.
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5) Evidence & guideline notes
CHA2DS2‑VASc is widely reflected in global guidelines for AF risk stratification, with strong low‑risk identification. Sex‑removed CHA2DS2‑VA has been discussed; follow current guidance and local practice.
FAQ
What is the CHADS2VASc (CHA2DS2‑VASc) score?
A clinical score estimating ischemic stroke risk in atrial fibrillation (AF). Versus CHADS₂, it enhances discrimination and low‑risk identification.
Who should use the chads2vasc calculator?
Mainly non‑valvular AF adults for stroke risk stratification; not advised for routine use in non‑AF populations.
What do the risk categories mean?
0: low; 1: low–moderate; 2–3: moderate; 4–5: high–moderate; ≥6: high. Consider anticoagulation as appropriate.
Why does female sex add 1 point?
Female sex correlates with risk and adds +1 in classic CHA2DS2‑VASc; some guidance discusses the sex‑removed CHA2DS2‑VA—follow current local policy and judgment.
Does the score replace clinician judgment?
No. It supports stratification. Management considers comorbidities, bleeding risk and preferences, decided by qualified clinicians.