The Impact of Sex and Gender on Stroke

Women face a disproportionate burden of stroke mortality and disability. Biologic sex and sociocultural gender both contribute to differences in stroke risk factors, assessment, treatment, and outcomes. There are substantial differences in the strength of association of stroke risk factors, as well as female-specific risk factors. Moreover, there are differences in presentation, response to treatment, and stroke outcomes in women. This review outlines current knowledge of impact of sex and gender on stroke, as well as delineates research gaps and areas for future inquiry.

Automated summary

Women bear a disproportionate burden of stroke mortality and disability. Both biological sex and sociocultural gender contribute to differences in stroke risk factors, assessment, treatment, and outcomes. This review outlines the current knowledge of the impact of sex and gender on stroke, while also identifying research gaps and areas for future inquiry.