Recent Blog Articles
The popularity of microdosing of psychedelics: What does the science say?
Pouring from an empty cup? Three ways to refill emotionally
Is pregnancy safe for everyone?
New pediatric guidelines on obesity in children and teens
Screening tests may save lives — so when is it time to stop?
Natural disasters strike everywhere: Ways to help protect your health
The case of the bad placebo
Do we feel pain more at night?
If you use cannabis, do it safely
Time for a diabetes tune-up
Heart Health
When cancer treatment affects the heart
- By Julie Corliss, Executive Editor, Harvard Heart Letter
The growing field of cardio-oncology strives to help people with cancer protect their cardiovascular health.
The number of cancer survivors in the United States now exceeds 18 million — a record-breaking number that’s expected to keep rising over time. This positive trend stems mainly from the earlier detection of many types of cancer coupled with more effective treatments.
As improved therapies continue to extend lives, people with cancer may be more likely to die of something else, especially heart disease. "Modern cancer treatments often lead to long remissions from cancer," says Dr. Ohad Oren, a cardiology fellow at Harvard-affiliated Massachusetts General Hospital. However, side effects from cancer therapies can affect the heart and blood vessels, possibly causing serious, sometimes life-threatening complications, he says. Broader recognition of these potential problems has increased referrals to cardio-oncology clinics, which focus on preventing and managing cardiovascular problems in people who are undergoing (or have completed) treatment for cancer.
To continue reading this article, you must log in.
Subscribe to Harvard Health Online for immediate access to health news and information from Harvard Medical School.
- Research health conditions
- Check your symptoms
- Prepare for a doctor's visit or test
- Find the best treatments and procedures for you
- Explore options for better nutrition and exercise
I'd like to receive access to Harvard Health Online for only $4.99 a month.
Sign Me UpAlready a member? Login ».
About the Author
Julie Corliss, Executive Editor, Harvard Heart Letter
Disclaimer:
As a service to our readers, Harvard Health Publishing provides access to our library of archived content. Please note the date of last review or update on all articles.
No content on this site, regardless of date, should ever be used as a substitute for direct medical advice from your doctor or other qualified clinician.
You might also be interested in…
Life After Cancer
This Special Health Report is designed to guide you through the next stage of your cancer journey. It will walk you through many of the issues you’ll face in the upcoming months and years—the long-term and late effects of your cancer and treatment; the potential for a recurrence or new cancer; the emotional, occupational, and financial issues you’ll potentially face; and the implications for your family and friends. You’ll learn how to readjust to the life you may have put on hold during your treatment, transitioning back to your full work and home life. And you’ll learn ways to maintain your health to prevent new problems, including cancer, from taking hold again.
Free Healthbeat Signup
Get the latest in health news delivered to your inbox!
