Kristina Cunanan is a master’s student in the Division of Clinical and Translational Research (Experimental Medicine) at McGill University Health Centre (MUHC) in Montréal, QC. Under the mentorship of Dr. Judy Luu, a women’s heart health cardiologist, she is focused on addressing sex and gender disparities in cardiovascular disease. Together, they work to develop evidence-based strategies for improving the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of heart disease in women, particularly those from underrepresented communities.
Her research examines the role of psychological distress in CVD and how sex and gender influence these interactions. By exploring female-specific biological and psychosocial risk factors, her work highlights the complex connection between mental and cardiovascular health in women, aiming to bridge knowledge gaps that have historically left women underrepresented in cardiovascular care.
Kristina is also deeply committed to community engagement and health advocacy. As a student co-lead of The POWER Hub, a community initiative founded by Dr. Luu, she focuses on improving cardiovascular health literacy, promoting culturally sensitive care and awareness, as well as increasing the representation of Filipino and other racialized women in cardiovascular research. Through these efforts, she aims to ensure that women’s heart health is prioritized in research, healthcare, and policy.
As a member of the CWHHA, Kristina brings a multidisciplinary perspective that combines research, advocacy, and lived experience. She is dedicated to closing the sex and gender gap in cardiovascular medicine, amplifying women’s voices in research and policy, and driving systemic change to improve heart health for all women.
