Home-based OSA screening does not improve quality of life in patients with atrial fibrillation compared to standard care
The VIR-SAAF trial is a national, decentralised RCT investigating whether home-based OSA screening and referral for potential treatment improves quality of life, physical activity, and AF-related outcomes compared with standard care in adults with paroxysmal or persistent AF. The primary outcome is the between-group difference in change from baseline to 18 weeks in quality of life using the Atrial Fibrillation Effect on QualiTy-of-life questionnaire. As a protocol paper, no results are reported yet.
This article is automatically generated from the structured evidence profile behind the claim above. Scores reflect the quality and quantity of available research, not clinical advice.
Home-based OSA screening does not improve quality of life in patients with atrial fibrillation compared to standard care The current body of evidence comprises 1 study, including 1 randomized controlled trial. EvidenceHub rates the overall confidence at 42/100 (low).
The Claim
Home-based OSA screening does not improve quality of life in patients with atrial fibrillation compared to standard care
This conclusion is most relevant to: Adults with paroxysmal or persistent atrial fibrillation in Denmark.
What the Research Shows
The conclusion draws on 1 linked study. Highlights from the cited literature:
- ▸VIR-SAAF: a study protocol for a national decentralised randomised controlled trial of home-based sleep apnoea screening in patients with atrial fibrillation in Denmark. (BMJ open, 2026) —
How It Works
The proposed biological pathway:
- ▸Home-based OSA screening identifies undiagnosed OSA
- ▸Patients with OSA are referred for potential treatment
- ▸Treatment of OSA may improve sleep quality and cardiovascular health
- ▸Result: Improved quality of life and AF-related outcomes
Who Might Benefit
Evidence fit by population:
- ▸Adults with paroxysmal or persistent atrial fibrillation in Denmark
Recommended Dose
N/A
Limitations & Caveats
Important context when interpreting this evidence:
- ▸No results yet reported as this is a study protocol
- ▸Decentralised remote design may introduce selection bias or adherence issues
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary outcome of the VIR-SAAF trial?▼
The primary outcome is the between-group difference in change from baseline to 18 weeks in quality of life, measured by the Atrial Fibrillation Effect on QualiTy-of-life questionnaire.
How are participants randomised in this trial?▼
Participants are randomised 2:1 to home-based screening for OSA or to no screening.
Is this trial conducted in-person or remotely?▼
The trial is fully decentralised and conducted remotely using a purpose-built mobile application, with no in-person visits required.
What is the sample size and duration of the VIR-SAAF trial?▼
The abstract does not specify sample size; the primary outcome is assessed at 18 weeks follow-up.
References
- 1.Hashiba M, Linz D, Frandsen R, Jennum P, Grove EL, Gantzhorn E, Al-Ansary L, Nielsen SK, Al-Alak A, Bille J, Fuglsang M, Tang LH, Korshøj M, Risom SS, Lamberts M. “VIR-SAAF: a study protocol for a national decentralised randomised controlled trial of home-based sleep apnoea screening in patients with atrial fibrillation in Denmark..” BMJ open, 2026. PMID: 42409410 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2026-121645