[Cancer and cardiovascular disease]

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Cardiology
• Public Health

Background:

• Cancer survivors experience reduced long-term survival, significantly linked to increased cardiovascular diseases (CVD).
• Certain cancer treatments, including chemotherapy, radiotherapy (thoracic and cranial), and hematopoietic stem cell transplantation, elevate the risk of cardiovascular events compared to the general population.
• These treatments can promote metabolic syndrome, acting as a potential intermediary in the development of CVD.

Purpose of the Study:

• To summarize the impact of cancer treatments on cardiovascular health in survivors.
• To highlight the role of metabolic syndrome in treatment-related CVD.
• To emphasize the importance of risk factor management for cancer survivors.

Main Methods:

• Literature review and synthesis of existing research on cancer treatment side effects.
• Analysis of epidemiological data comparing CVD incidence in cancer survivors and the general population.
• Identification of mechanisms linking cancer therapies to cardiovascular complications.

Main Results:

• Cancer treatments significantly increase the incidence of cardiovascular events in survivors.
• Metabolic syndrome is frequently observed post-treatment, mediating the relationship between therapy and CVD.
• Cancer survivors exhibit a higher prevalence of cardiovascular risk factors.

Conclusions:

• Cancer survivors are at a heightened risk for cardiovascular diseases, necessitating proactive management.
• Promoting healthy lifestyles and stringent control of cardiovascular risk factors are essential recommendations for cancer survivors.
• Further research is needed to develop targeted strategies for preventing and managing CVD in this population.