Cancer as an Individual Risk Factor for Heart Failure: A Review of Literature

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Cardiology
• Internal Medicine

Background:

• Cancer and cardiovascular diseases (CVD), particularly heart failure (HF), are leading causes of global mortality.
• While advancements have reduced incidence, predicting and managing cancer-related cardiovascular complications remains challenging.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the intricate relationship between cancer and HF.
• To explore shared risk factors, pathological mechanisms, and potential biomarkers.
• To emphasize the need for integrated clinical and therapeutic approaches.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of existing studies on cancer and HF.
• Analysis of risk factors including lifestyle, genetics, and immune dysregulation.
• Examination of pathological pathways like inflammation, oxidative stress, and hypoxia.

Main Results:

• Evidence suggests a direct interaction between cancer and HF, elevating mortality risk in both patient groups.
• Shared pathological mechanisms like inflammation and oxidative stress link cancer and cardiac dysfunction.
• Biomarkers show potential for risk assessment and early cardiotoxicity detection.

Conclusions:

• The bidirectional relationship between cancer and HF necessitates comprehensive clinical investigation.
• Understanding common pathophysiological links is key to developing effective preventive and therapeutic strategies.
• Multifaceted approaches are required to address the complex interplay between these diseases.