Cardiovascular Considerations After Cancer Therapy
Anne Blaes, Anju Nohria, Saro H. Armenian, Carmen Bergom, Paaladinesh Thavendiranathan, Ana Barac, Gabriela Sanchez‐Petitto, Sanjal Desai, Leah L. Zullig, Amee Morgans, Joerg Herrmann
Abstract
Cancer survivors, particularly those treated with anthracyclines and chest radiation, face an elevated risk of cancer therapy-related cardiovascular toxicity. These complications affect not only physical health, but also life expectancy. Risk factors for cancer therapy-related cardiovascular toxicity include age at which cancer treatment was received, the use of (potentially) cardiotoxic cancer therapies, and the presence of concomitant cardiovascular risk factors. Current guidelines provide recommendations for cardiovascular surveillance after cancer therapy, including type and frequency. All cancer survivors are advised to undergo annual clinical screenings and optimization of cardiovascular risk factors. Those at higher risk should undergo additional cardiovascular testing. This document aims to summarize the available evidence, present practical recommendations, and outline existent gaps in the current literature regarding cardiovascular care after cancer therapies.