EPIDEMIOLOGICAL FINDINGS ON CEREBROVASCULAR DISEASES AND THEIR IMPLICATIONS.

Summary Progress in the elucidation of the epidemiology of the cerebrovascular diseases has been hampered by the inadequacy of recording of information concerning acute clinical events and the lack of specific diagnostic tools able to distinguish between the various pathologic processes which are commonly grouped into the category of stroke. At this early stage of our knowledge the most conclusive observation is the striking relationship between hypertensive disease and strokes, two entities which parallel each other in morbidity, mortality and racial incidence. Preexistent cardiac disease, usually atherosclerotic or rheumatic, and electrocardiographic abnormalities also predispose to a high rate of future cerebrovascular disease. While it is evident that further study is needed to elaborate the epidemiology of the cerebrovascular diseases it is not too early to urge early detection and comprehensive treatment of the hypertensive state. This approach must include measures aimed at reduction of overweight and hypercholesterolemia and elimination of cigarette smoking when present as well as specific antipressor drug therapy. These hygienic measures should also be widely applied in an effort at primary prevention of atherosclerotic coronary heart disease - a goal which if achieved will further reduce the impact of the stroke problem.