Radiotherapy, chemotherapy and atherosclerosis

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Cardiology
• Atherosclerosis Research

Background:

• Cancer therapies, including radiotherapy and chemotherapy, are increasingly recognized for their potential adverse effects on cardiovascular health.
• Atherosclerosis, a major contributor to cardiovascular disease (CVD), may be promoted by these cancer treatments.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the impact of radiotherapy and chemotherapy on the progression of atherosclerosis in cancer patients.
• To synthesize current evidence on treatment-induced cardiovascular risks.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of studies investigating radiotherapy and chemotherapy effects on atherosclerosis.
• Analysis of reported cardiovascular events and risk factors associated with cancer treatments.

Main Results:

• Radiotherapy dose and site correlate with increased atherosclerosis incidence; cranial irradiation is linked to dyslipidemia and metabolic syndrome.
• Chemotherapies, including tyrosine kinase inhibitors and antimetabolites, elevate blood pressure, increase CVD events, and can cause cardiac conditions.
• Anthracyclines are associated with heart failure and potentially increased CVD risk.

Conclusions:

• Growing evidence links radiotherapy and certain chemotherapeutic agents to accelerated atherosclerosis and higher CVD rates.
• Cancer survivors treated with these modalities should be classified as high-risk for atherosclerosis.
• Enhanced monitoring, investigation, and proactive treatment are crucial for managing CVD risk in these patients.