American Cancer Society (ACS) research estimates there are more than 18 million adult survivors of cancer in the United States, and that number is expected to climb to more than 22 million by 2030. Although that’s encouraging news, it also puts increasing numbers of survivors at risk for cardiovascular disease or CVD. A recent study found adult survivors of cancer had a 42% greater risk of CVD than people without cancer. The authors found that survivors of cancer had a particularly higher risk of developing heart failure (52% higher risk), followed by stroke (22% higher risk). The incidence of CVD was highest in survivors who had breast, lung, and hematological/lymphatic cancers. With February designated as American Heart Month, it’s a good reminder for people with cancer to monitor their cardiovascular health.
Treatments for cancer, like radiation and chemotherapy, can help people live longer. However, certain treatments have potential side effects, including new or worsening heart disease. The type of damage to your heart and the risk of causing a problem can vary depending on the therapy, but it’s a real health risk that is oftentimes neglected.
Dr. Arif Kamal, Chief Patient Officer, American Cancer Society
Heart conditions that can develop or worsen after cancer treatment are:
Congestive heart failure
Coronary artery disease
Cardiomyopathy
Damage to heart valves
Myocarditis (Inflammation of the heart muscle)
High blood pressure
Cardio-oncology focuses on identifying, monitoring, and treating cardiovascular diseases caused by cancer treatment. The goal is to reduce the side effects cancer treatment can have on a person’s cardiovascular system. Cardio-oncologists collaborate with other healthcare providers to tailor treatment and care to your needs.
“Cancer survivors are a high-risk population and should be prioritized for interventions that lower the chance of heart disease later in life,” said Kamal. “Health care providers need to actively reinforce the importance of prevention against CVD.”
Sometimes cancer-related side effects and symptoms don’t show up until long after treatment ends. Whether you're still in treatment, recently completed it, or long since finished, be sure you’re getting follow-up care and doing everything you can to safeguard your health. The ACS has information to help you take steps to protect your health, including:
Avoiding tobacco products
Getting to and staying at a healthy weight
Getting regular exercise
Eating a healthy diet
Avoiding or minimizing alcohol use
Getting recommended cancer screenings
Creating a survivorship care plan
Keeping your follow-up appointments
Taking care of your emotional health
Kamal also recommends working with your cancer care team to find out whether your treatment can cause any heart-related problems. If so, there are often ways to help lower the risk. (MSM/Newswise)
