Anti-cancer therapy-induced metabolic syndrome

The increasing number of long-term survivors that underwent the anti-cancer therapy faces the late treatment-related adverse effects and the increased risk of developing metabolic syndrome. This article defines the pathophysiology that underlies development of anti-cancer therapy-related metabolic syndrome and outlines the possibility of optimisation of comprehensive care focusing on prevention. Considering the preventability of metabolic syndrome, effective screening and follow-up appropriate for patients at increased risk of related adverse events should be established. Subsequently, early initiation of therapy targeting the hallmarks of metabolic syndrome may ease its manifestation in long-term perspective.