Treatments

Cardiac Oncology

Cardiac oncology is a subspecialty field in medicine that focuses on the cardiovascular management (prevention, diagnosis, and treatment) of patients with cancer. Here's a breakdown of the key aspects:

Focus: It's not about treating tumors of the heart, which are rare.
Core Objective: The primary goal is to ensure that "the cancer patient of today does not become the heart patient of tomorrow".
Management: This involves:
- Minimizing cardiovascular risks associated with cancer treatment.
- Preventing and treating heart disease that may develop due to cancer or its treatment.
- Providing comprehensive care for cancer patients throughout their treatment journey - before, during, and after.

Why is it important?

Many cancer treatments, like chemotherapy and radiation therapy, can have side effects that damage the heart muscle or blood vessels.
Some people with cancer may already have pre-existing heart conditions.
Cardiac oncology specialists can help manage these risks and ensure optimal heart health for cancer patients.