2008 Volume 72 Issue 6 Pages 991-997
Background A previous history of myocardial infarction (MI), stroke, and the presence of atrial fibrillation (AF) are known risk factors for the onset of arterial thromboembolic events such as MI and ischemic stroke. To clarify the rate of incidence of such events for these high-risk patients in Japan, a nation-wide cohort study was conducted that was named the `Japan Thrombosis Registry of Atrial Fibrillation, Coronary and Cerebrovascular Events' (ie, J-TRACE) [UMIN Registered ID C000000189]. Methods and Results In the J-TRACE registry, a total of 8,093 Japanese patients with either a history of stroke and/or MI or patients with non-valvular AF were registered. This registry was developed by specialists in cardiology and neurology, physicians working at general hospitals, as well as general practice physicians, from whole regions of Japan, possibly reflecting the real-world medical practice. Recruited patients will be followed up for 2-3 years. Medical history, accompanying risk factors, demographic characteristics, and information regarding the use of medications were collected for these patients at baseline. Cardiovascular ischemic events and serious adverse experiences, including cerebral bleedings, which occur during the follow-up period will be recorded over a maximum of 3 years. Conclusion The J-TRACE offers an opportunity to provide fundamental information regarding the incidence of cardiovascular ischemic events by a stratum of the risk factor profile and current medical treatment for Japanese patients at high risk for thromboembolic diseases. (Circ J 2008; 72: 991 - 997)
