Calculator Guides
The Complete Guide to CHA₂DS₂-VASc Score
Master the CHA₂DS₂-VASc score for atrial fibrillation stroke risk stratification. Learn when to anticoagulate and how to apply evidence-based guidelines.
What is the CHA₂DS₂-VASc Score?
The CHA₂DS₂-VASc score is the gold standard for assessing stroke risk in patients with non-valvular atrial fibrillation. It guides anticoagulation decisions and has largely replaced the older CHADS₂ score.
Scoring Components
| Factor | Points |
|---|---|
| C - Congestive heart failure | 1 |
| H - Hypertension | 1 |
| A₂ - Age ≥75 years | 2 |
| D - Diabetes mellitus | 1 |
| S₂ - Stroke/TIA/thromboembolism | 2 |
| V - Vascular disease | 1 |
| A - Age 65-74 years | 1 |
| Sc - Sex category (female) | 1 |
Interpretation
- Score 0 (male) or 1 (female): Low risk - No anticoagulation needed
- Score 1 (male): Consider anticoagulation
- Score ≥2: Anticoagulation recommended
Clinical Pearls
- Always calculate HAS-BLED alongside CHA₂DS₂-VASc
- Female sex only adds a point if other risk factors present
- DOACs are preferred over warfarin in most patients
- Score applies to non-valvular AF only
Related calculators
- CHA₂DS₂-VASc Score Calculator - Cardiology
- HAS-BLED Score Calculator - Cardiology