Sexual dimorphism in stroke.

Abstract

Stroke is a leading cause of death and serious, long-term disability. Studies evaluating differences between men and women are lacking. Significant differences exist between men and women in terms of risk factors and susceptibility to stroke. Women are less likely to have diagnostic studies performed to evaluate their risk for stroke, and they have a higher mortality following acute stroke. Women however, have a higher rate of arterial recanalization after intravenous tissue plasminogen activator used for the treatment of acute stroke. The data comparing the effectiveness of treatments for prevention of recurrent stroke between men and women is sparse. There have not been any studies comparing results of treatment of musculoskeletal impairments in men and women after stroke.