Cardio-Oncology

Cardio-oncology is a growing field focused on the prevention, detection, monitoring, and treatment of cardiovascular disease (CVD) before, during, and after chemotherapy or radiation cancer therapies.

While oncology treatments have become more effective and allowed patients to live longer, the incidence of CVD is on the rise in these patients—even months or years after a cancer-free diagnosis. Many commonly used oncological treatments cause cardiotoxicity, including chemotherapy and radiation. Because of cardiotoxicity, CVD can develop during or after the completion of cancer treatment. Improved patient outcomes have led to a longer lifespan, which requires screening and testing throughout treatment and into remission. A multidisciplinary approach to must be taken to care for the health and well-being of each patient.