Oncology and Cardiac Rehabilitation: An Underrated Relationship

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Oncology
• Exercise Science

Background:

• Cancer and cardiovascular diseases (CVD) are leading global causes of death.
• A bidirectional relationship exists between cancer and CVD, where each condition increases the risk of the other.
• Shared risk factors and underlying biological pathways contribute to this complex association.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze the biological and biochemical pathways linking cancer and CVD.
• To examine the protective role of physical activity and exercise across the cancer continuum.
• To introduce Cardio-Oncology Rehabilitation as an intervention to improve cancer patient care.

Main Methods:

• Review of observational studies linking physical activity to cancer and CVD risk reduction.
• Analysis of exercise benefits on cardio-respiratory fitness, quality of life, and treatment side effects.
• Discussion of exercise interventions during diagnosis, therapy, and survivorship.

Main Results:

• Physical activity reduces cancer development/progression and CVD risk.
• Exercise improves physical and psychological well-being, counteracting cancer therapy toxicity.
• Exercise offers protection against chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and cardiovascular complications.

Conclusions:

• Physical activity and exercise are crucial protective behaviors against both cancer and CVD.
• Cardio-Oncology Rehabilitation, adapted from Cardiac Rehabilitation, can enhance cancer patient outcomes.
• Leveraging existing cardiac rehabilitation networks can facilitate the implementation of Cardio-Oncology Rehabilitation.