Lucknow: Doctors participating in the Cardiological Society of India’s conference revealed that cancer treatments such as chemotherapy, radiation, and immunotherapy can cause heart problems even in patients without prior heart conditions. These issues include heart failure, irregular heartbeats (arrhythmias), high blood pressure, and other cardiovascular conditions.
Speaking at the conference on Sunday, Prof Roopali Khanna, a faculty member in cardiology at SGPGIMS, highlighted the growing field of cardio-oncology, which focuses on the heart health of cancer patients and survivors. She emphasised the importance of early identification of heart problems in cancer patients, using advanced tools such as echocardiography, cardiac MRI, and strain imaging to detect issues before they become severe. Early intervention can protect the heart while allowing cancer treatment to continue.
Prof Khanna also mentioned medications that can safeguard the heart from the harmful effects of cancer treatments. Newer drugs may provide even greater protection, particularly for patients with conditions such as diabetes. Cardio-oncology involves a team of cardiologists, oncologists, and primary care doctors working together to manage both cancer and heart health effectively. Prof Aditya Kapoor, head of the cardiology department at SGPGIMS, advised families and patients to be aware of this approach and ensure regular heart health monitoring during cancer treatment.
Advances in precision medicine, including genetic testing and machine learning, are also helping doctors provide personalized care by predicting and managing heart risks based on each patient’s individual health profile.
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