6 Ways to Protect Your Heart During & After Cancer Treatment

Cancer and its treatment can have adverse effects on overall health and wellness. A study has revealed that individuals diagnosed with cancer before 55 are at a higher risk of mortality from cardiovascular disease in comparison to those without a cancer diagnosis.  

The likelihood of developing heart-related issues during or after cancer treatment depends on factors such as types of cancer, the specific cancer drugs or radiation employed, the dosage administered, and the individual's pre-existing cardiovascular health. Those diagnosed with breast, prostate, or bladder cancer are at greater risk of developing heart diseases after initial cancer treatment.   

In this blog post, we will share detailed insights into the connection between cancer treatment and heart diseases and how individuals can reduce the overall impact on cardiovascular health. Read on for more.  

Can Chemotherapy Damage Your Heart?

Among all cancer treatment procedures, chemotherapy is most likely to affect heart health. While some chemotherapy drugs can trigger immediate issues, such as spasms in blood vessels or irregular heart rhythms, others can initiate gradual changes that expedite the development of more severe heart diseases.  

Chemotherapy drug doxorubicin, commonly used in breast cancer, as well as some sarcomas and lymphoma, can reduce the heart's pumping capacity. This side effect has historically been considered "irreversible."   

However, only around 2% of breast cancer patients will encounter heart-related side effects when administered the standard doxorubicin dose. In the case of lymphoma and sarcoma, the number rises to approximately 5% due to the higher doses required for these types of cancer.   

Besides, recent findings indicate that individuals who have received heart-protective medication have exhibited improvement, even years after completing their treatment.  

In addition, other chemotherapy drugs, such as daunorubicin, epirubicin, mitoxantrone, etc., can weaken the left ventricle, the heart's primary pumping chamber, leading to heart issues and even heart failure. To minimize this risk, healthcare providers usually make adjustments such as temporary drug cessation, dosage reduction, or prescribing heart-protecting medications like ACE inhibitors.   

Other Cancer Treatment Procedures That Can Damage the Heart

1. Radiation therapy

While heart tissue generally displays resilience to the effects of radiation, it can cause damage when administered near the chest wall for lymphoma, breast, lung, or esophageal cancer. An early-onset side effect of radiotherapy on the heart is pericarditis or inflammation of the protective pericardium surrounding the heart.   

Additionally, radiation can initiate other slower-developing cardiovascular issues, including valve irregularities, rhythm disturbances, and the premature stiffening and narrowing of cardiac arteries. Moreover, radiation-related damage to arteries may complicate subsequent procedures such as bypass surgery or angioplasty.  

However, contemporary radiation techniques have significantly reduced the risk of heart disease after cancer treatment. Advanced cancer treatment approaches, such as 3-D planning utilizing CT scans and precise targeting through tightly focused radiation beams, enable physicians to safeguard the heart and other healthy tissues more effectively during treatment.   

2. Targeted therapy

Another medication that can potentially impact the heart adversely is trastuzumab, categorized as a form of targeted therapy. However, the side effects associated with this medication usually subside with time, and the heart generally regains its functionality within approximately four weeks.   

3. Hormone therapy

Certain cancers exhibit a significant dependence on hormones. For instance, estrogen plays a vital role in controlling breast cancer, while testosterone is responsible for prostate cancer. Medications that help regulate the production of these hormones or inhibit cellular responses may affect cardiovascular health.  

For instance, oncologists often prescribe Tamoxifen, an anti-estrogen medication for breast cancer. This medication can elevate the risk of blood clots, including deep-vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism. In the case of prostate cancer, some testosterone-blocking drugs can increase the likelihood of heart issues.   

However, the risk of heart disease from hormone therapy is relatively low and manageable with some measures.  

What Are the Possible Heart Issues Result from Cancer Treatment

Cardiotoxicity refers to the harmful effects of cancer treatment medications or radiation on the heart muscle, leading to potential damage or dysfunction of the heart. It can impair the heart's ability to pump blood efficiently. Here are other heart issues that can result from cancer treatment:  

• Cardiomyopathy or weakened heart muscles may lead to heart failure.  

• Arrhythmias or irregular heart rhythms.  

• Pericarditis or inflammation of the pericardium, the protective sac around the heart.  

• Myocarditis or inflammation of the heart muscle.  

• Valvular heart disease or damage to heart valves  

• High blood pressure or hypertension  

• Blood clots, including deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE).   

• Coronary artery disease (CAD) or premature narrowing and stiffening of the coronary arteries.  

• Peripheral artery disease (PAD) or damaged blood vessels, including those in the limbs.  

• Heart attacks  

• Heart failure  

How to Minimize the Risk of Heart Damage from Cancer Treatments

1. Consult a cardiologist

Individuals suffering from underlying heart conditions should consult a cardiologist before beginning cancer treatment. They can assess heart health and suggest preventive measures to minimize cardiac risks during cancer treatment.  

2. Get regular screening

According to researchers, regular screening or routine tests can significantly reduce the risk of heart disease after cancer treatment and help in early diagnosis. It may include echocardiograms (ultrasound of the heart), electrocardiograms (ECGs), or other cardiac tests.  

3. Adapt a healthy lifestyle 

• Maintain a heart-healthy diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and limited saturated and trans fats.  

• Exercise regularly and incorporate cardio or moderate-intensity strength training exercises as recommended by the healthcare team.   

• Individuals who smoke should quit immediately and avoid alcohol.  

4. Take cardioprotective medications

Depending on the specific treatment and risk factors, the healthcare team may prescribe medications such as ACE inhibitors, beta-blockers, or statins to help protect the heart during cancer treatment.  

5. Stay hydrated 

Dehydration is a common problem during cancer treatment. Stay well-hydrated during chemotherapy and radiation therapy to help protect the heart and kidneys.  

6. Manage stress 

Consider stress-reduction techniques such as meditation, yoga, or counseling to help manage the emotional and psychological stress associated with cancer treatment.  

Individuals can also consider joining support groups that can provide valuable information and emotional support during cancer treatment. Each individual's health requirement is unique, and the approach to minimizing heart damage should be tailored to their needs and circumstances. Discuss the treatment options and side effects with the healthcare team thoroughly to ensure the best possible care and treatment outcomes.  

Consult a Cardio-Oncologist

A cardio-oncologist is a medical professional specializing in cardiovascular health of those undergoing or who have undergone cancer treatment. Their role is to assess, monitor, and manage heart-related issues that may arise from cancer treatment.  

Cardio-oncologists evaluate an individual's cardiovascular risk factors, such as pre-existing heart conditions, family history, and lifestyle factors like smoking or obesity. They use this information to determine an individual's baseline risk for heart disease and work closely with the oncology team to develop a treatment plan that minimizes cardiovascular risk while effectively treating the cancer.  

For any queries or concerns about cancer treatment approaches, novel treatment approaches, etc., contact Advanced Cancer Treatment Center, one of the best cancer centers in Florida, offering personalized cancer treatment plans.