Over the years, cancer treatment options have advanced, becoming more effective and targeted. The downside of these therapies, besides potentially unpleasant side effects, is the effect they can have on the heart.
Chemotherapy drugs like anthracycline and trastuzumab (Herceptin), as well as targeted therapies, immunotherapy and radiation can put cancer patients and survivors at risk of cardiovascular conditions like heart failure, blood clots, coronary artery disease, arrhythmias and heart valve disease.
Because of this risk, Endeavor Health offers a specialized program of collaborative care between cardiologists and oncologists.
Endeavor Health Cardiovascular Institute has been named a Cardio-Oncology Center of Excellence by the International Cardio-Oncology Society.
The Endeavor Health cardio-oncology program streamlines care for patients, starting even before they begin cancer treatment.
“The best way to protect against possible heart problems is through preventive care,” said Jason Robin, MD, a cardiologist board-certified in cardio-oncology who directs Endeavor Health’s cardio-oncology program.
“By starting before cancer treatment begins, we aim to limit cardiac complications caused by the treatment,” he said.
First, a patient’s risk is assessed, which might include things like family history, lifestyle choices and heart testing or imaging. Patients and their families then learn about the individual risks associated with their cancer treatment.
If patients have an existing heart condition, oncology specialists work with our cardiologists to create the most appropriate individualized treatment plan.
Once treatment begins, patients are closely monitored for possible heart issues using advanced imaging and biomarkers. Doctors might recommend changes in lifestyle and diet habits to limit someone’s risk of heart problems.
When cancer treatment is complete, our experts partner with our cancer survivor program to continue to monitor and follow up with patients, watching for possible cardiovascular issues.
The cardio-oncology program is designed to provide seamless, expert care that reduces the risk of heart problems stemming from cancer treatment. And our experts never stop looking for new treatment options.
“The cardio-oncology team includes specialists who do leading-edge clinical research, and they’re investigating new ways to effectively treat cancer while limiting heart complications associated with cancer therapies,” Dr. Robin said.
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