Migraine and cardiocerebrovascular risk in women

Abstract

The interest of the medical community has recently focused on the relationship between gender and cardiocerebrovascular risk. In this paper, we will first review gender differences in cardiocerebrovascular disorders, then we will discuss the existing evidence on the links between migraine and stroke and cardiovascular disease in women, and speculate on the possible physiopathological interpretations of this emerging epidemiological link. In the third part of this work, we will address the issue of the effect of sex hormones on vascular risk, and consider the evidence concerning the safety of oral contraceptives and hormone-replacement therapy. Finally, we will outline the main trends of future research and its possible clinical and therapeutic implications. © 2007 Future Medicine Ltd.