Research Project
10391683
Paradigms in Cardiovascular Care of the Cancer Patient/Survivor ? Biennial Cardio- Oncology Midwest Regional Educational Symposium Abstract Second to cardiovascular disease (CVD) in the U.S., cancer remains the leading cause of death in the world. Nonetheless, the overall death rate from cancer has declined, and the number of cancer survivors has increased as a result of advancements in oncologic treatment, and greater attention by providers to prevention and surveillance for adverse outcomes. By January 1, 2030, it is estimated that the population of cancer survivors will increase to more than 22.1 million due to the growth and aging of the population alone. CVD is the major cause of morbidity and mortality among cancer survivors, and is considered to be a major cause of mortality among cancer survivors aged 15 to 39 years old. Many therapeutic approaches to cancer significantly increase the risk of cardiomyopathy, ischemia, cardiovascular events (including myocardial infarction and ventricular arrhythmias), and hypertension. Cardio-oncology is a nascent field that focuses on preventing adverse cardiovascular outcomes in patients with active cancer and improving the overall cardiovascular health of cancer survivors. This involves specific understanding of interactions between cancer and the cardiovascular system; as well as intrinsic knowledge of cancer therapeutic agents including chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and newer targeted therapies/immunotherapy. The field of cardio-oncology is becoming more specialized with constant variations in cancer treatment; and emphasizes a great need to educate and keep clinician up to date. This is particularly important for primary doctors and other caregivers that remain peripherally involved in routine care of cancer patient; and need to be cognizant or aware of cancer therapy(ies) received, short and long-term side effects, and management strategies. We propose an educational activity that will provide the latest clinical updates in the treatment of cardiovascular conditions in an oncology setting. The purpose of this program is to familiarize primary care providers, hospitalists, oncologists, cardiologists, advanced practice providers, pharmacists, and trainees, with updated treatment of cardiac conditions seen in cancer patients/ survivors; as well as identify ongoing research to further improve our understanding of cancer therapy-related cardiovascular dysfunction to further enhance management strategies for the future. Given the paucity of cardio-oncology specialists in many parts of the U.S., the program will arm general practitioners with practical tools to promote the prevention and treatment of CVD as a result of cancer therapy, to help their cancer patients live longer and healthier lives.
