Cardio-oncology

Rapid development of new cancer therapies is extending the lives of many cancer patients, which is great news. But increasing life spans also increase the likelihood of experiencing long-term adverse effects of treatment, such as secondary cancers and cardiovascular damage.

Cardio-oncology has emerged as a new field that balances the benefits of cancer treatments against the risks of adverse cardiovascular effects. Cardio-oncology focuses on patients who have or are at risk for heart disease who also have been treated for cancer. A cardiologist can assess patients for potential risk of developing heart conditions if patients take certain types of cancer drugs, or following radiation treatment to the chest.

A cardio-oncologist is now part of the multidisciplinary care team for cancer patients. 

Heart Services Are Nearby

If you have any symptoms of heart attack or stroke, call 911. Do not drive yourself to the hospital. EMTs can begin life-saving care immediately before you reach the hospital.

For more information, contact your primary care provider or Traverse Heart and Vascular at 800-637-4033.