Socioeconomic and Engagement Barriers to Cardiovascular Risk Awareness Among Cancer Survivors

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Cardiovascular Medicine
• Health Disparities

Background:

• Cancer survivors face increased risk of treatment-related cardiovascular disease (CVD).
• Awareness of this CVD risk is crucial for proactive health management in survivorship.
• Understanding factors influencing risk awareness is key to improving patient outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the prevalence of self-reported awareness of treatment-related CVD risk among cancer survivors.
• To evaluate how socioeconomic, racial, clinical, and access-related factors influence this awareness.
• To explore non-linear and intersectional patterns in CVD risk awareness.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional survey of 614 cancer survivors was conducted.
• Ascertained awareness of treatment-related CVD risk and estimated 10-year ASCVD risk.
• Employed multivariable logistic regression and decision tree analysis to identify predictors and patterns.

Main Results:

• Awareness of CVD risk was low, especially among high-risk survivors (14%).
• Older age, lower income, and hypertension were linked to lower awareness.
• Oncology engagement improved awareness, with greater benefit for White compared to Black/African American survivors.

Conclusions:

• Cardiovascular disease risk awareness among cancer survivors is notably low.
• Awareness is significantly influenced by socioeconomic status and healthcare engagement levels.
• Addressing communication gaps and access barriers in survivorship care is vital for enhancing CVD risk recognition and long-term health.