Understanding Cardiotoxicity Make an Appointment Ask a Question Search Conditions This information has been reviewed and approved by Chris Fine, MD (October 2022). Understanding Cardiotoxicity Cardiotoxicity is damage caused to the heart and cardiovascular system by some cancer treatments. Common Causes Some, but not all, cancer treatments can damage the heart. The most common include: Chemotherapy – certain drugs Radiation therapy – especially to the chest Targeted or molecular therapy Drugs to prevent cancer recurrence Who's at Risk? People over age 60, women, children and those who have had: High doses of anthracyclines High-dose chest radiation therapy Anthracyclines and chest radiation therapy Anthracyclines or trastuzumab with a history of smoking, high blood pressure, diabetes, obesity or heart problems Anthracyclines followed by trastuzumab Heart Problems Caused by Cancer Treatment Abnormal heart rhythm Blood clots Congestive heart failure Coronary artery disease High or low blood pressure Myocarditis Peripheral vascular disease Valve disease Diagnosis A cardio-oncologist may use these and other tests to make the diagnosis. Echocardiogram Electrocardiogram Blood tests Treatments Personalized treatment may include: Aspirin Statins Beta-blockers ACE inhibitors and angiotensin system inhibitors (ARBs) Diuretics Cardiac rehabilitation Nutrition counseling How to Stay Healthy Keep a healthy weight Exercise regularly Eat fruits, veggies and whole grains Care for emotional health Follow treatment plan Ask for help when you need it 67% overall cancer survival rate 1 in 10 cancer patients die from heart disease not cancer More Information about Heart and Cancer Care The Cardio-Oncology Program Cardiotoxicity Cardio-Oncologist Chris Fine, MD Cancer Care at National Jewish Health Want to use this on your website? Fill out the content usage request form and then copy this code: