Vascular and Subcortical Dementia

Abstract

Vascular dementia (VAD), a disabling loss of cognitive function caused by cerebrovascular disease [1], is the second most common cause of dementia in the USA [2]. In fact, around 15-20% of all dementia cases are caused by cerebrovascular disease after Alzheimer’s disease (AD). VAD has a prevalence of 1.5% in the general population, occurring almost exclusively in elderly adults. Understanding the causes and risks associated with the disease will help physicians provide treatment and support for patients as well as caretakers.