Current functioning of cardio-oncology units in Spain

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Oncology
• Cardio-oncology

Background:

• Cardio-oncology (C-O) units are essential for managing cardiovascular health in cancer patients.
• Previous surveys indicate a limited but increasing presence of C-O programs.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the current functioning and organization of cardio-oncology units in Spain.
• To assess the prevalence of C-O programs and their characteristics within Spanish institutions.

Main Methods:

• A survey was distributed to members of the Spanish Society of Cardiology involved in C-O.
• Institutions reporting C-O programs received a more detailed questionnaire regarding their organization and practices.

Main Results:

• 56 centers with C-O programs were identified; 32 responded to the detailed survey.
• 28% of centers have multidisciplinary C-O units.
• Over 80% of centers utilize surveillance protocols, incorporating advanced echocardiography (68%) and troponin monitoring (82%).

Conclusions:

• The number of Spanish institutions with C-O programs has increased since 2017.
• Further development and promotion of multidisciplinary C-O units are recommended to optimize cardiovascular care for cancer patients.