Cancer treatments such as chemotherapy, targeted therapies, radiation and immunotherapy can cause heart problems, known as cardiotoxicity. This can lead to conditions including cardiomyopathy, coronary artery disease, arrhythmias and valve disease, either during or long after treatment. Cardiooncology specialists monitor heart health at three stages: before, during and after cancer treatment, especially in patients with existing cardiovascular risks like hypertension or diabetes.
Preventing heart disease involves managing cardiometabolic health through awareness of risk factors, blood pressure and cholesterol monitoring, diabetes management and exercise. Patients are encouraged to maintain follow-up care to catch early signs of cardiovascular disease (CVD) and adjust their lifestyles to reduce these risks.
Clinical research in cardiooncology plays a crucial role in understanding and mitigating the cardiovascular risks associated with cancer treatments. By enrolling patients in clinical trials, researchers can study the effects of anti-cancer therapies on the heart, develop strategies to prevent severe side effects like myocarditis, and improve overall patient care. These studies help refine treatment protocols and provide new insights into balancing effective cancer treatment with cardiovascular health, ultimately enhancing long-term outcomes for cancer survivors.
