The CHADs 2 score and the CHADs 2 Vasc score guide us in regards to using full anticoagulation to prevent stroke in patients with atrial fibrillation/flutter. If two or more points are present, then full anticoagulation should be undertaken. The presence of one point can be individualized to the patient. If none are present, aspirin alone is adequate.

The CHADs 2 Vasc score is a more recent measure to predict annual stroke risk. It includes female gender, different age brackets (age 65-74 gets 1 point and over 75 gets 2 points) and the presence of vascular disease (prior MI, peripheral arterial disease or aortic plaque/aneurysm).

The CHADs 2 score gives one point for age > 65 and does not distinguish any further for age > 75. There are no points awarded for female gender or vascular disease.

Both scoring systems give 2 points for TIA/stroke/prior thromboembolism.