If you're receiving treatments that could affect your heart, it’s a good idea to work with a cardiologist during your cancer treatment. They can help monitor your heart function, manage any emerging issues and ensure that your cancer treatments don’t negatively affect your heart health. A cardiologist will also be there to provide guidance and support throughout your cancer journey.

There are several ways to prevent heart problems while you’re undergoing cancer treatment. These methods include:

• Regular monitoring: Working closely with your oncologist and cardiologist to monitor your heart health is key to catching issues early.
• Adopting a heart-healthy lifestyle: Eating a balanced diet, staying active, managing stress and avoiding smoking can help protect your heart.
• Medication: Your doctor may recommend medications to control blood pressure, cholesterol or other factors that affect heart health.
• Adjusting cancer treatment: In some cases, treatment plans may be adjusted to reduce the impact on the heart without compromising cancer care.

Your doctor may recommend several tests to monitor your heart health during cancer treatment. These tests could include:

• Echocardiograms (echo): An ultrasound of your heart to assess its function and structure.
• Electrocardiograms (ECG): To check for abnormal heart rhythms.
• Blood tests: To measure heart-related biomarkers and detect early signs of damage.
• MUGA scans: A type of nuclear scan to measure how well your heart is pumping blood.
• Cardiac MRI: In some cases, this may be used for a more detailed view of the heart.

There are several heart conditions to be aware of during cancer treatment. These conditions include:

• Heart failure: The heart muscle may weaken, making it harder for the heart to pump blood effectively.
• Arrhythmias: Cancer treatments can cause irregular heart rhythms, leading to palpitations or dizziness.
• Coronary artery disease: Radiation therapy, particularly around the chest area, can increase the risk of narrowing blood vessels, potentially leading to chest pain or heart attacks.
• Pericardial disease: Inflammation of the lining around the heart can sometimes occur, especially after radiation therapy.

The risk depends on the type of cancer treatment you are receiving and your individual health history. For example, chemotherapy drugs like anthracyclines and certain radiation therapies, particularly when directed at the chest area, are known to increase the risk of heart problems. Additionally, pre-existing conditions like high blood pressure or diabetes can make the heart more vulnerable. Your doctor can assess your risk and help monitor and manage your heart health during treatment.

The heart and circulatory system can sometimes be affected by specific cancer treatments like chemotherapy, radiation and immunotherapy. By working closely with oncologists and cardiologists, patients can get the best care possible for their cancer and their heart health. Cardio-oncology helps monitor, manage and minimize heart-related side effects, so you can focus on your cancer recovery with confidence.

Cardio-oncology services are incredibly beneficial for cancer survivors and patients undergoing treatments for cancers that may impact heart health. Some cancers that can benefit from cardio-oncology treatments are:

• Breast cancer: Certain chemotherapy drugs (like anthracyclines) and radiation therapy can increase the risk of heart problems, especially if they are used near the chest area.
• Lung cancer: Treatments such as radiation or targeted therapies may affect the heart, particularly when radiation is directed at the chest.
• Leukemia and lymphoma: Chemotherapy drugs used to treat these cancers can sometimes lead to heart complications, such as arrhythmias or heart muscle damage.
• Hodgkin’s lymphoma: Radiation therapy used to treat this cancer, especially when directed at the chest or surrounding areas, can increase the risk of heart issues.
• Prostate cancer: Certain hormone therapies and radiation treatment can sometimes have cardiovascular side effects.