The Pontifical Academy of Sciences, whose purpose is to promote the progress of the sciences for the common good of the human person, in its Study Week of 31 May – 1 June 2010 at its headquarters in the Vatican, would like to focus on the wellbeing of the vascular system, taking into account the revolutionary contributions of the last century in relation to the human heart and brain. Vascular Disease accounts for 15 million deaths per year worldwide. This represents 30% of all causes of mortality. Most vascular deaths are secondary to brain and heart infarctions. Stroke (cerebrovascular disease) ranks as 1st, 2nd and 3rd cause of death depending on the country or world region. Public recognition of cerebrovascular disease lags significantly behind identification of coronary artery disease.
H.E. Msgr. Marcelo Sánchez Sorondo