Cardiovascular risk management in cancer survivors: Are we doing it right?

Abstract

Although under-recognized, cancer survivors continue to be at an increased risk of death from cardiovascular complications post-remission or cure. This increased burden of cardiovascular disease results from the interplay of various factors. Adequate cardiovascular risk assessment and timely intervention through a multi-disciplinary approach in these patients plays a pivotal role in the prevention of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. We discuss the shortcomings of using current risk prediction scores in cancer survivors and provide some insights into cardiovascular risk management relevant for primary care physicians, oncologists, and cardiologists alike.

Keywords: Cancer survivors; Cardio-oncology; Atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease risk estimator; Cardiovascular disease risk; Childhood cancer survivor study; Cancer policy

Core Tip: Accurate assessment of cardiovascular risk in adult cancer survivors is important. Cancer survivors form a unique subset of a vulnerable population given their exposures to potential cardiotoxic therapies. The importance of common preventive cardiovascular strategies in the long-term outcomes of cancer survivors is understated in clinical practice.