Final answer:
Ischemia, which is reduced blood flow to a tissue region, often affects the function of the cardiovascular system. This can lead to hypoxia, cell death, and severe impairment of brain or heart function.
Step-by-step explanation:
Ischemia, which is reduced blood flow to a tissue region, often affects the function of the cardiovascular system. When blood flow is restricted, tissues downstream of the narrowed vessel can experience decreased oxygen supply, leading to hypoxia. Hypoxia in cardiac muscle or brain tissue can result in cell death and severe impairment of brain or heart function.