Project 458258

Alzheimer's disease (AD) and cardiovascular disease (CVD) affect many elderly people and are among the top 10 leading causes of death among Canadians. AD affects the brain and causes dementia, a condition characterized by a progressive decline in a person's ability to think and function. CVD describes conditions which affect the heart and blood vessels such as heart attack and stroke. AD and CVD often occur together. It has been suggested that CVD may contribute to the development and progression of AD. Currently, there is no cure for AD, prompting the need to explore new treatment options. Leukotriene receptor antagonists (LTRAs) are a class of medications currently used to treat asthma. Recent studies suggest that LTRAs may be beneficial for AD and CVD. This research aims to determine if use of LTRAs is associated with a lower risk of AD- and CVD-related outcomes among people aged 65 and older living in Ontario. Outcomes which will be explored include dementia, stroke, heart attack, and entering a long-term care home. This study will also explore the extent to which CVD contributes to the development of dementia. This research could provide evidence to support a new treatment or prevention option for people at risk of AD and CVD, and therefore, may present the opportunity to reduce significant morbidity and mortality among elderly Canadians.