Modern concepts in cardio-oncology

Area of Science:

• Cardio-oncology
• Cardiovascular Medicine
• Oncology

Background:

• Cancer therapies (chemotherapy, targeted therapy, immunotherapy, radiotherapy) pose significant risks to the cardiovascular system.
• Cardiovascular complications include hypertension, cardiomyopathy, arrhythmia, and thrombosis, impacting cancer patient care.
• The increasing number of novel cancer drug approvals necessitates continuous evaluation of their cardiovascular effects.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide an overview of key concepts and novel considerations in cardio-oncology.
• To highlight the essential tasks of cardio-oncology in managing cancer-related cardiovascular disease.
• To discuss the establishment of fellowship programs, ethical issues, and survivorship programs.

Main Methods:

• Review of current literature and expert insights in cardio-oncology.
• Synthesis of established and emerging knowledge on cancer therapy-induced cardiotoxicity.
• Discussion of multidisciplinary team roles and patient care pathways.

Main Results:

• Cardio-oncology addresses critical tasks: pre-therapy risk assessment, timely diagnosis, morbidity/mortality characterization, cardiotoxicity treatment, and long-term survivor monitoring.
• Novel cancer therapies present ongoing challenges requiring vigilant cardiovascular surveillance.
• The field is evolving with new fellowship programs, ethical considerations, and survivorship initiatives.

Conclusions:

• Cardio-oncology is crucial for optimizing care for cancer patients experiencing cardiovascular complications.
• Proactive cardiovascular risk assessment and management are essential throughout cancer treatment.
• Establishing robust cardio-oncology programs is vital for improving outcomes and survivorship in cancer patients.