Stroke is the most common cause of severe disability and, besides cancer, the most cost-intensive disease. Current estimates suggest that 25% of adults will suffer a stroke during their life, with numbers expected to increase in our ageing populations (forecast for Austria by 2035: 30%). The VASCage research center aims to counteract this trend. Through scientific research, VASCage aims to develop new prevention strategies to reduce stroke risk, by targeting both new and established risk factors (lipoprotein(a), inflammation, obesity, unhealthy diet, microplastics, etc.), and diseases associated with increased stroke risk (autoimmune diseases, migraine, sleep disorders, cancer, kidney disease, etc.). Furthermore, VASCage focuses on elucidating the pathophysiology of stroke. Important pathophysiological mechanisms studied at VASCage include the roles of mitochondrial dysfunction, microbiota, and amyloid deposition in the development of stroke. Our vision is to reduce the risk of stroke through prevention and targeted diagnostics to contribute to “brain health” and “longevity”.
In addition to developing preventive strategies, VASCage is also concerned with improving rehabilitation and quality of life after stroke. Successful recovery depends on excellent acute treatment, targeted individual rehabilitation and long-term post-stroke care. Common complications after a stroke include depression, cognitive impairment and dementia, sleep disorders, fatigue and spasticity, as well as speech and swallowing disorders. To improve life after stroke, VASCage conducts studies on better and more efficient stroke management in hospitals (including digitalization), evidence-based and personalized rehabilitation (including tele-rehabilitation and brain-computer interfaces) and precision medicine (AI, risk scores and biomarkers). VASCage investigates the prevention of complications after stroke or to treat them in time. Further research areas include (assisted) living after a stroke, evidence-based therapies, and reintegration into working life. The vision is to extend the healthy lifespan by prevention and optimal treatment of stroke.
To reach these goals, VASCage not only works together with pharmaceutical and medtech companies, but also care facilities, dietary supplement manufacturers and all companies active in the field of cardiovascular diseases with a focus on stroke and its prevention.
Contact data:
Dipl.-Ing. Mag. Matthias Ullrich LL.M. | CEO
matthias.ullrich(at)vascage.at | +43 512 554435 | www.vascage.at