Cardiotoxicity is detected using electrocardiogram (ECG), cardiac imaging, and biomarkers. The frequency of assessment depends on a number of factors - for example, evaluation for coronary artery disease, ischaemia and vascular disease is recommended in patients with a history of mediastinal radiation starting five years post-treatment and then at least every five years thereafter, even if they have no symptoms.
Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors or beta-blockers may be given to prevent or treat heart failure. And cancer therapy can be modified - for example reducing the dose or having a gap between two agents which raise heart failure risk when taken together (e.g. anthracyclines and trastuzumab).
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"Monitoring the heart throughout the cancer journey can ensure it is protected," said Professor Clark. "Cardiotoxicity can occur even in people without cardiovascular risk factors since drugs like anthracyclines and trastuzumab are toxic to the heart, so it is an innocent bystander."
"For cancer patients who do develop heart failure, there are clinics that will improve their quality of life but our study shows many are not referred," she added. "Telephone calls to support and monitor those with cancer and heart failure would reduce the burden of hospital appointments, which patients said was a priority."
About the Association of Cardiovascular Nursing & Allied Professions
The mission of the Association of Cardiovascular Nursing & Allied Professions (ACNAP) is to support nurses and allied health professionals throughout Europe to deliver the best possible care to patients with cardiovascular disease and their families.
About EuroHeartCare
EuroHeartCare is the annual Congress of the Association of Cardiovascular Nursing & Allied Professions (ACNAP) of the European Society of Cardiology (ESC).
About the European Society of Cardiology
The European Society of Cardiology brings together health care professionals from more than 150 countries, working to advance cardiovascular medicine and help people lead longer, healthier lives.
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