Final answer:
Having had a stroke in the past greatly increases the risk of future strokes. Depression is associated with a higher frequency and greater severity of strokes, both cortical and subcortical. Depression also increases the risk of developing heart disease, with severity of depression influencing the risk levels.
Step-by-step explanation:
Research has shown that there is a higher frequency and greater severity of depression associated with cortical and subcortical strokes. After having a stroke, individuals are at a higher risk for future strokes. Men also have a higher likelihood of experiencing strokes compared to women. Several studies have found a significant link between depression and cardiovascular problems, including heart disease and stroke. Depression has been found to increase the risk of developing heart disease and experiencing higher mortality rates. The severity of depression is also associated with a higher risk of heart disease.