Atrial fibrillation (AF) is a factor in the development of thrombi that can lead to ischemic strokes. Anticoagulants are crucial in preventing strokes among patients with AF but are associated with bleeding risks. Recent studies have shown that despite anticoagulants’ efficacy in stroke prevention, many patients with AF receive subtherapeutic levels of anticoagulation because of concerns about bleeding. Of particular interest is to quantify the perceived relative importance of treatment-related benefits and risks and how these perceptions vary between patients and physicians in different countries.