Breast cancer treatments can increase the risk of heart disease

Is there a link between breast cancer and cardiovascular disease??

Chemotherapy has already saved many women with breast cancer, but the treatment could also have harmed the heart of those affected. Women with breast cancer appear to be at increased risk for cardiovascular disease after treatment, including heart failure. Doctors and patients should weigh the benefits of specific treatments for possible damage to the heart.

The treatment of breast cancer can have a negative effect on the health of the heart. The American Heart Association (AHA) experts have now published a clear warning of cardiovascular disease as a result of breast cancer therapy. The results of the research were published in the English-language journal "Circulation".

What are the reasons for the increased risk??

There are three main reasons for an increased risk of cardiovascular disease in women after breast cancer treatment: pre-existing heart risk factors such as uncontrolled hypertension or high cholesterol levels, which are not studied in breast cancer treatment. Exposure to chemo and radiation, which can harm the heart. And as a third point, a lifestyle without sufficient exercise, which leads to weight gain during treatment.

Drug doxorubicin massively increases the risk

Both breast cancer and cardiovascular disease share certain risk factors, explain the experts. These include, for example, weight gain, lack of exercise and so-called metabolic dysfunction, which are risk factors for breast cancer recurrence and cardiovascular disease. The biggest risk is the chemotherapy drug doxorubicin, a so-called anthracycline. Eight treatments already increase the risk of heart failure by five percent. With 14 doses, the risk is increased by a full 48 percent, say the doctors.

Patients should be informed about the possible side effects

Any patient undergoing breast cancer treatment, whether or not initially suffering from heart disease, should be aware of the potential effects of the treatment on their heart, explains Drs. Laxmi Mehta from Ohio State University. The expert also works for the American Heart Association. However, the finding should not discourage patients from undergoing breast cancer treatment, but allow them to work with their doctor to make informed decisions about best cancer treatment, the physician adds.

Survivors of breast cancer often die of cardiovascular disease

Survivors of breast cancer over the age of 65 die more frequently from cardiovascular disease than from breast cancer, the researchers say. With the publication of the statement in the journal, the American Heart Association hopes to increase the perception of the greatest health threats to women after cancer. In addition, the experts issued a press release on the subject.

Behavior of those affected has a great influence on possible illnesses

Patients should always get the best possible treatment for breast cancer, says Dr. Mehta. However, everyone should talk to their doctor about the potential side effects. Much of the risk can be reduced by changing the behavior of those affected.

Cardiotoxicity must be monitored during and after breast cancer treatment

During the treatment of breast cancer, monitoring, prevention and secondary management of so-called cardiotoxicity are of crucial importance. Thereafter, long-term monitoring of late cardiotoxicity is essential, say the scientists. Cancer treatment can lead to early or delayed cardiotoxicity, which has serious effects on the body. These include, for example, hypertension, arrhythmias, myocardial ischemia, valvular heart disease, pulmonary hypertension and pericarditis. However, the most common side effect of chemotherapy is left ventricular dysfunction, the researchers say. (As)