| This program includes scientific research in cardiovascular epidemiology, neuro-epidemiology and ophthalmologic epidemiology. Cardiovascular epidemiologic research focuses on the determinants of atherosclerosis and coronary heart disease in the elderly, and on cardiovascular diseases in women. The research is based on the Rotterdam Study and addresses inflammation markers and hemostasis as determinants of cardiovascular diseases in the elderly, and the effects of menopause, endogenous hormones and hormone replacement therapy in women. Neuro-epidemiologic research focuses on the etiology of neurodegenerative and cerebrovascular diseases, including dementia and Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, stroke and cerebral white matter lesions. The research emphasizes the role of vascular factors in the etiology of these diseases, with use of state of the art neuro-imaging techniques (MRI, PET, TCD). Ophthalmological epidemiologic research focuses on determinants of macula degeneration and glaucoma. The emphasis is on the putative role of genetic factors and vascular factors in the etiology of these diseases. |
