Prevention of Cardiovascular Disease Among Cancer Survivors: the Role of Pre-existing Risk Factors and Cancer Treatments

Abstract

Purpose of Review

The two leading causes of death in North America are cardiovascular disease (CVD) and cancer. As a result of necessary cancer treatments, survivors are at an increased risk of CVD. The contribution of cardio-toxic chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and radiation therapy to CVD is discussed. This paper addresses shared CVD and cancer risk factors (smoking tobacco, diet, obesity, sedentary lifestyle, hypertension, alcohol consumption, and hyperlipidemia) and the influence on cardiovascular outcomes in those treated with cardio-toxic cancer therapies.

Recent Findings

Strategies for prevention of CVD in cancer survivors are gaining more attention through rigorous screening, long-term surveillance, and referral to multidisciplinary cardio-oncology teams. Additionally, interventions, such as exercise prescription in the setting of cardiac rehabilitation, and pharmacologic approaches are suggested to lessen the burden of CV related toxicity in cancer survivors treated with cardio-toxic therapies.

Summary

Those with modifiable CVD risk factors treated with cardio-toxic cancer therapies are at an increased risk for cardiac dysfunction. Strategies for prevention, surveillance, and management include the integration of cardio-oncology teams and rehabilitation programs into cancer survivorship care.

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