Policy recommendations to address gaps in research for women with heart disease, stroke and vascular cognitive impairment

Abstract

Heart and brain conditions are inextricably linked; patients with heart disease and/or stroke increase their risk for vascular cognitive impairment (VCI) and vice versa. In Canada, 9 out of 10 individuals have at least one risk factor for heart conditions, stroke or VCI. Many of these risks are experienced disproportionally by women, resulting in worse health outcomes. Oftentimes, primary care duties also fall on women who must balance between managing their health and caregiving.