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Cardiovascular disease and cancer: shared risk factors and mechanisms

Nicholas S Wilcox1, Uri Amit2,3, Jacob B Reibel3,4

  • 1Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA.

Nature Reviews. Cardiology
|April 10, 2024
PubMed

Insights

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) and cancer share common risk factors and mechanisms, leading to increased risks for both conditions. Understanding this bidirectional relationship is key for advancing cardio-oncology care.

Area of Science:

  • Cardio-oncology
  • Epidemiology
  • Public Health

Background:

  • Cardiovascular disease (CVD) and cancer are leading global causes of death.
  • These two major diseases are increasingly recognized as interconnected.
  • Shared modifiable risk factors contribute to the burden of both conditions.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review epidemiological data on shared risk factors for CVD and cancer.
  • To examine the bidirectional relationship between CVD and cancer incidence.
  • To discuss shared pathophysiological mechanisms and future research in cardio-oncology.

Main Methods:

  • Systematic review of epidemiological data.
  • Analysis of modifiable risk factors (hypertension, hyperlipidaemia, diabetes, obesity, smoking, diet, physical activity, social determinants).
  • Review of studies on CVD risk in cancer patients and cancer risk in CVD patients.

Main Results:

  • Significant overlap exists in modifiable risk factors for CVD and cancer.
  • Patients with cancer have an increased risk of CVD.
  • Patients with CVD have an increased risk of cancer, indicating a bidirectional link.

Conclusions:

  • CVD and cancer share common risk factors and underlying mechanisms.
  • The bidirectional relationship between CVD and cancer necessitates integrated research and clinical approaches.
  • Future research in cardio-oncology should focus on prevention and management strategies for patients with both conditions.

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