Cardio-Oncology: Vascular and Metabolic Perspectives: A Scientific Statement From the American Heart Association

Risk of Venous Thromboembolism in Patients With Stage III and IV Non-Small-Cell Lung Cancer: Nationwide Descriptive Cohort Study

BACKGROUND

Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is a common complication in patients starting cancer therapies for non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC). We examined the risk and timing of VTE in patients with stage IIIA, IIIB to C, and stage IV NSCLC according to received cancer treatments.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A nationwide registry-based cohort study of patients recorded in the Danish Lung Cancer Registry (2010-2021) followed for 1 year after entry into the registry to assess the incidence of VTE. The Aalen-Johansen estimator was used to calculate the risk of VTE after treatment commencement with chemotherapy, radiotherapy, chemoradiation, immunotherapy, and targeted therapy.

RESULTS

Among the 3475 patients with stage IIIA, 4047 with stage IIIB to C, and 18,082 patients with stage IV cancer, the 1-year risk of VTE was highest in the first 6 months and varied markedly by cancer stage and cancer treatment. In stage IIIA, VTE risk was highest with chemotherapy (3.9%) and chemoradiation (4.1%). In stage IIIB to C, risks increased with chemotherapy (5.2%), immunotherapy (9.4%), and targeted therapy (6.0%). Stage IV NSCLC showed high risk with targeted therapy (12.5%) and immunotherapy (12.2%). The risk was consistently higher for pulmonary embolism than deep vein thrombosis.

CONCLUSION

VTE risks vary substantially according to cancer treatments and cancer stages. The highest risk was observed in the initial 6 months of therapy initiation. These insights emphasize the need for tailored risk assessment and vigilance in managing VTE complications in patients with NSCLC. Further research is needed to optimize individual thromboprophylaxis strategies for patients with unresectable and metastatic NSCLC.

Long-term and short-term cardiovascular disease mortality among patients of 21 non-metastatic cancers

INTRODUCTION

Previous studies on cardiovascular disease (CVD) death risk in cancer patients mostly focused on overall cancer, age subgroups and single cancers.

OBJECTIVES

To assess the CVD death risk in non-metastatic cancer patients at 21 cancer sites.

METHODS

A total of 1,672,561 non-metastatic cancer patients from Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) datebase (1975-2018) were included in this population-based study, with a median follow-up of 12·7 years. The risk of CVD deaths was assessed using proportions, competing-risk regression, absolute excess risks (AERs), and standardized mortality ratios (SMRs).

RESULTS

In patients with localized cancers, the proportion of CVD death and cumulative mortality from CVD in the high-competing risk group (14 of 21 unique cancers) surpassed that of primary neoplasm after cancer diagnosis. The SMRs and AERs of CVD were found higher in patients with non-metastatic cancer than the general US population (SMR 1·96 [95 %CI, 1·95-1·97]-19·85[95 %CI, 16·69-23·44]; AER 5·77-210·48), heart disease (SMR 1·94[95 %CI, 1·93-1·95]-19·25[95 %CI, 15·76-23·29]; AER 4·36-159·10) and cerebrovascular disease (SMR 2·05[95 %CI, 2·02-2·08]-24·71[95 %CI, 16·28-35·96]; AER 1·01-37·44) deaths. In the high-competing risk group, CVD-related SMR in patients with localized stage cancer increased with survival time but followed a reverse-dipper pattern in the low-competing risk group (7 of 21 cancers). The high-competing risk group had higher CVD-related death risks than the low-competing risk group.

CONCLUSION

The CVD death risk in patients with non-metastatic cancer varied by cancer stage, site and survival time. The risk of CVD mortality is higher in 14 out of 21 localized cancers (high-competing cancers). Targeted strategies for CVD management in non-metastatic cancer patients are needed.

Arterial Stiffness Changes in Adult Cancer Patients Receiving Anticancer Chemotherapy: A Real-World Bicentric Experience

Background Chemotherapy correlates to acute and long-term cardiotoxicity, is reflected clinically by myocardial and vascular endothelial dysfunction, and can cause cardiovascular complications. Thus, early diagnosis of cardiovascular disease in cancer patients undergoing anti-cancer treatment is necessary to enhance long-term survival. Our principal objective in this study was to discern the impact of specific anti-cancer chemotherapeutics and biologics on arterial stiffness alterations before and after the administration. Methods Conducted at Mustafa Bacha University Hospital, Algeria, the study focused on arterial stiffness in anti-cancer chemotherapy patients. Assessments included blood pressure, diabetes, and dyslipidemia, with precise measurements using validated systems, particularly pulse wave velocity (PWV). Various chemotherapy protocols were applied, and statistical analysis with R software (R Foundation for Statistical Computing, Vienna, Austria) maintained a significance level of p=0.05. Key outcomes centered on carotid-femoral PWV and secondary endpoints such as central and peripheral pressures and pulse pressure (PP). Univariate and bivariate analyses were conducted using appropriate statistical tests.  Results A comparative prospective observational study was completed on 58 patients (34 women and 24 men; mean age: 52.64 +/- 12.12 years) treated with anti-cancer chemotherapy agents. Our evaluation included a complete clinical exam, electrocardiogram, Doppler echocardiography, and applanation tonometry with arterial stiffness measurement using PWV. Patients presented significantly higher levels of carotid-femoral PWV, regardless of the chosen chemotherapy protocol, with no return to the initial level after one year of stopping treatment (p-value < 0.01). Moreover, this increase was more significant in patients with diabetes and hypertension and patients treated with monoclonal antibodies or intercalants.  Conclusion This prospective study shows that chemotherapy patients have elevated arterial stiffness, emphasizing the need to assess PWV and monitor cardiovascular risk factors. PP measurement with PWV could improve risk management.

Advancing the care of individuals with cancer through innovation & technology: Proceedings from the cardiology oncology innovation summit 2020 and 2021

As cancer therapies increase in effectiveness and patients' life expectancies improve, balancing oncologic efficacy while reducing acute and long-term cardiovascular toxicities has become of paramount importance. To address this pressing need, the Cardiology Oncology Innovation Network (COIN) was formed to bring together domain experts with the overarching goal of collaboratively investigating, applying, and educating widely on various forms of innovation to improve the quality of life and cardiovascular healthcare of patients undergoing and surviving cancer therapies. The COIN mission pillars of innovation, collaboration, and education have been implemented with cross-collaboration among academic institutions, private and public establishments, and industry and technology companies. In this report, we summarize proceedings from the first two annual COIN summits (inaugural in 2020 and subsequent in 2021) including educational sessions on technological innovations for establishing best practices and aligning resources. Herein, we highlight emerging areas for innovation and defining unmet needs to further improve the outcome for cancer patients and survivors of all ages. Additionally, we provide actionable suggestions for advancing innovation, collaboration, and education in cardio-oncology in the digital era.

Characteristics of patients with newly diagnosed hematological malignancies referred for echocardiography

Objective

The importance of cardio-hemato-oncology programs is increasing. The main aim of the study was to identify all coexisting cardiovascular disorders in patients with new hematological malignancies referred for echocardiography during baseline evaluation before anticancer therapy.

Material and methods

The study was based on 900 echocardiographic examinations performed within 12 months at the Institute of Hematology and Transfusion Medicine in Poland: 669 tests (74.3%) were dedicated to hemato-oncology patients at the different stages of cancer therapy, however almost a third of the tests (277, 30.8%) were part of a baseline evaluation before starting first line anticancer therapy due to newly diagnosed hematological malignancies.

Results

The group of 277 patients with new hematological malignancies (138 women, 49.82%) with a median age of 66 years (interquartile range: 53-72 years) was included in the main analyses. The three most frequent new histopathological diagnoses were: non-Hodgkin lymphoma (63 cases; 22.74%), acute myeloid leukaemia (47 cases; 16.97%), and multiple myeloma (45 cases; 16.25%). The three most common clinical cardiology disorders were arterial hypertension (in 133 patients, 48.01%), arrhythmias (48 patients, 17.33%), and heart failure (39 patients, 14.08%). Among 48 patients with arrhythmias there were 22 cases with atrial fibrillation. The most frequently detected echocardiographic abnormality was Left Atrial Volume Index >34 ml/m2 which was present in 108 of 277 patients (38.99%) and associated with a significantly greater chance of concomitant diagnosis of arrhythmias (OR=1.98; p=0.048) especially atrial fibrillation (OR=3.39; p=0.025). The second most common echocardiographic finding was diastolic dysfunction 2nd or 3rd degree revealed in 43 patients (15.52%) and associated with a greater chance of simultaneous diagnosis of heart failure (OR=8.32; p<0.0001) or arrhythmias (OR=4.44; p<0.0001) including atrial fibrillation (OR=5.40; p=0.0003).

Conclusions

In patients with newly diagnosed hematological malignancies left ventricular diastolic dysfunction is a common abnormality in echocardiography and may determine diagnoses of heart failure or arrhythmias.

Cardiovascular Toxicity of Angiogenesis Inhibitors Among Patients With Cancer in Taiwan: A Nested Case-Control Study

BACKGROUND

Research on the cardiovascular toxicity of angiogenesis inhibitors among patients with cancer in Taiwan is lacking. This observational study explored the risk of major adverse cardiovascular events (MACEs) associated with angiogenesis inhibitors in Taiwan.

METHODS AND RESULTS

We conducted a nested case-control study using the TCR (Taiwan Cancer Registry) linked with the Taiwan National Insurance Claim Database. We matched every case with 4 controls using risk-set sampling by index date, age, sex, cancer type, and cancer diagnosis date. Conditional logistic regression was used to evaluate the risks of MACEs and different cardiovascular events using propensity score adjustment or matching. Sensitivity analyses were used to evaluate the risks matched by cancer stages or exposure within 1 year. Among a cohort of 284 292 after the exclusion of prevalent cases, the incidences of MACEs among the overall cohort and those exposed to angiogenesis inhibitors were 22.5 and 32.5 events per 1000 person-years, respectively. We matched 17 817 cases with 70 740 controls, with a mean age of 74.9 years, and 56.8% of patients were men. After propensity score adjustment, angiogenesis inhibitors were associated with increased risks of MACEs (odds ratio, 4.56; 95% CI, 1.78-11.59). Significantly increased risks were noted for heart failure hospitalization, myocardial infarction, cerebrovascular accident, and venous thromboembolism, but not for new-onset atrial fibrillation. Similar results were observed after matching by cancer stage or restriction of 1-year exposure.

CONCLUSIONS

Angiogenesis inhibitors were associated with increased risks of MACEs among patients with various malignancies in Taiwan but were not associated with new-onset atrial fibrillation.

Interventional cardiology in cancer patients: A position paper from the Portuguese Cardiovascular Intervention Association and the Portuguese Cardio-Oncology Study Group of the Portuguese Society of Cardiology

The field of Cardio-Oncology has grown significantly, especially during the last decade. While awareness of cardiotoxicity due to cancer disease and/or therapies has greatly increased, much of the attention has focused on myocardial systolic disfunction and heart failure. However, coronary and structural heart disease are also a common issue in cancer patients and encompass the full spectrum of cardiotoxicity. While invasive percutaneous or surgical intervention, either is often needed or considered in cancer patients, limited evidence or guidelines are available for dealing with coronary or structural heart disease. The Society for Cardiovascular Angiography and Interventions consensus document published in 2016 is the most comprehensive document regarding this particular issue, but relevant evidence has emerged since, which render some of its considerations outdated. In addition to that, the recent 2022 ESC Guidelines on Cardio-Oncology only briefly discuss this topic. As a result, the Portuguese Association of Cardiovascular Intervention and the Cardio-Oncology Study Group of the Portuguese Society of Cardiology have partnered to produce a position paper to address the issue of cardiac intervention in cancer patients, focusing on percutaneous techniques. A brief review of available evidence is provided, followed by practical considerations. These are based both on the literature as well as accumulated experience with these types of patients, as the authors are either interventional cardiologists, cardiologists with experience in the field of Cardio-Oncology, or both.

Cardiovascular adverse events and prognosis in patients with haematologic malignancies and breast cancer receiving anticancer agents: Kurume-CREO Registry insights

AIMS

Cancer treatment-related cardiovascular toxicity (CTR-CVT) is a growing concern in patients undergoing anticancer therapy. The Heart Failure Association (HFA) and International Cardio-Oncology Society (ICOS) risk assessment tools have been proposed for the baseline cardiovascular (CV) risk stratification of patients with cancer. This study investigated the incidence of CV adverse events in clinical practice, also using the HFA-ICOS risk tool.

METHODS AND RESULTS

This single-centre, prospective, observational study was conducted at Kurume University Hospital from October 2016 to August 2021, including patients aged ≥20 years with haematologic malignancies or breast cancer who were receiving anticancer agents. Cardiovascular assessments were performed at enrolment and every 6 months until August 2021, with additional assessments for suspected CV adverse events. The primary endpoint was common terminology criteria for adverse events v4.0 Grade ≥2, and the secondary endpoints were all-cause and CV deaths. Of the enrolled 486 patients, CV adverse events occurred in 24.5, 15.8, 38.1, and 18.0% of patients with leukaemia, malignant lymphoma, multiple myeloma, and breast cancer, respectively. Patients at high or very high risk had a significantly higher incidence of CV events, according to the HFA-ICOS risk tool. Cardiovascular death occurred in 4 (0.8%) patients during follow-up.

CONCLUSION

This study revealed that 16-38% of patients with haematologic malignancies and breast cancer developed CTR-CVT during follow-up, in which patients with high/very high risk were well predicted by the HFA-ICOS risk assessment tool. Monitoring and managing CV risk factors are essential for safe cancer therapy.

Allied health professional's self-reported competences and confidence to deliver physical activity advice to cancer patients at a single Centre in England

PURPOSE

Allied Health Professionals (AHPs) are well placed to deliver physical activity advice but this is currently not routine clinical practice. Increasing evidence demonstrates physical activity can improve quality-of-life for people affected by cancer, enable behaviour change, improve survival and reduce long-term treatment effects. We aimed to understand AHPs' current knowledge and practice in advising about physical activity.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

AHPs' self-reported knowledge, competency and training needs in managing physical effects of cancer, and the merits of physical activity data were collected via an online survey. The survey link was cascaded electronically to all NHS and NHS-affiliated AHPs working across several generic and non-cancer-specific healthcare interfaces across one city in England.

RESULTS

Eighty AHPs responded. Forty-one percent of AHPs had patients with current or past diagnoses of cancer. Overall, AHPs reported low confidence in giving physical activity advice, with physiotherapists the most confident. 60% of respondents identified training needs concerning the impact of cancer.

CONCLUSIONS

Although the merits of physical activity for people affected by cancer is clearly evidenced, low levels of AHP confidence and competence in discussing this topic limit patients' awareness and access to services. Addressing this confidence and competence has potential to improve patient outcome.

Molecular Imaging Biomarkers in Cardiooncology: A View on Established Technologies and Future Perspectives

Novel therapeutic options have significantly improved survival and long-term outcomes in many cancer entities. Unfortunately, this improvement in outcome is often accompanied by new and increasingly relevant therapy-related cardiovascular toxicity. In this context, cardiooncology has emerged as a new field of interdisciplinary individual patient care. Important tasks are pretherapeutic risk stratification and early detection and treatment of cardiotoxicity, which comprises cardiac damage in relation to cardiovascular comorbidities, the tumor disease, and cancer treatment. Clinical manifestations can cover a broad spectrum, ranging from subtle and usually asymptomatic abnormalities to serious acute or chronic complications. Typical manifestations include acute and chronic heart failure, myo- and pericarditis, arrythmias, ischemia, and endothelial damage. They can be related to almost all current cancer treatments, including cytotoxic chemotherapy, targeted therapy, immunotherapy, hormonal therapy, and radiotherapy. Molecular imaging biomarkers can aid in pretherapeutic cardiooncologic assessment for primary prevention and personalized surveillance, detection, and differential diagnosis of cardiotoxic complications. Potential advantages over conventional diagnostics are the higher detection sensitivity for subtle changes in cardiac homeostasis, higher reproducibility, and better observer independence. Hybrid imaging with highly sensitive PET/MRI may be particularly suited for early diagnosis. Important technologies that are encouraged in current multidisciplinary guidelines are equilibrium radionuclide angiography for evaluation of ventricular function and chamber morphology, as well as myocardial perfusion imaging for additional detection of ischemia. Novel modalities that may detect even earlier signs of cardiotoxicity comprise 123I-metaiodobenzylguanidine SPECT to visualize sympathetic innervation, 18F-FDG and somatostatin receptor (68Ga-DOTATOC/DOTATATE) PET to indicate a metabolic shift and inflammation, and 68Ga-fibroblast activation protein inhibitor PET to monitor cardiac remodeling. In addition, PET imaging of mitochondrial function has recently been introduced in preclinical models and will potentially broaden the field of application through higher sensitivity and specificity and by enabling higher individualization of diagnostic concepts.

Cardiovascular Imaging in Contemporary Cardio-Oncology: A Scientific Statement From the American Heart Association

Advances in cancer therapeutics have led to dramatic improvements in survival, now inclusive of nearly 20 million patients and rising. However, cardiovascular toxicities associated with specific cancer therapeutics adversely affect the outcomes of patients with cancer. Advances in cardiovascular imaging have solidified the critical role for robust methods for detecting, monitoring, and prognosticating cardiac risk among patients with cancer. However, decentralized evaluations have led to a lack of consensus on the optimal uses of imaging in contemporary cancer treatment (eg, immunotherapy, targeted, or biological therapy) settings. Similarly, available isolated preclinical and clinical studies have provided incomplete insights into the effectiveness of multiple modalities for cardiovascular imaging in cancer care. The aims of this scientific statement are to define the current state of evidence for cardiovascular imaging in the cancer treatment and survivorship settings and to propose novel methodological approaches to inform the optimal application of cardiovascular imaging in future clinical trials and registries. We also propose an evidence-based integrated approach to the use of cardiovascular imaging in routine clinical settings. This scientific statement summarizes and clarifies available evidence while providing guidance on the optimal uses of multimodality cardiovascular imaging in the era of emerging anticancer therapies.

Prevalence and outcomes of type 2 myocardial infarction in patients with cancer: A retrospective analysis from the National Inpatient Sample dataset

BACKGROUND

This study aimed to investigate the prevalence, clinical characteristics and outcomes of type 2 myocardial infarction (T2AMI) in patients with versus without cancer.

METHODS

All hospitalizations with a primary discharge diagnosis of T2AMI were stratified according to cancer status (secondary diagnosis of any-cancer vs cancer-free) using data from the US National Inpatient Sample (2016-2019). The primary outcome was in-hospital all-cause mortality while secondary outcomes were in-hospital major adverse cardiovascular and cerebrovascular events (MACCE).

RESULTS

Among 61,305 included hospitalizations with primary diagnosis of T2AMI, 3745 (6.1%) were associated with a diagnosis of cancer. Patients with T2AMI and cancer presented more frequently with acute respiratory failure (23.2% vs 18.1%), acute pulmonary embolism (3.7% v 1.3%), major bleeding (6.8% vs 4.1%) and renal failure (51.0% vs 46.8%), compared to patients without. On adjusted analysis, diagnosis of cancer was associated with lower odds of invasive coronary angiography (aOR 0.75, 95% CI 0.60 to 0.93, p = 0.009) but greater odds of mortality (aOR 1.95, 95% C.I. 1.26-2.99 p = 0.002). Among the different types of cancer, adjusted risk of all-cause mortality was higher in patients with colorectal (aOR 4.17 95% CI 1.68-10.32, p = 0.002), lung (aOR 3.63, 95% CI 1.83-7.18, p < 0.001) and haematologic (aOR 2.48, 95% CI 1.22-5.05, p = 0.001) cancer.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with cancer presenting with T2AMI have lower odds of management with invasive diagnostic coronary angiography and have higher rates of in-hospital all-cause death. Further studies are warranted to improve overall care and outcomes of cancer patients and cardiovascular diseases.

Annual Increase of Acute Inpatients with Both Cancer and Cardiovascular Diseases in Japan 2011-2015: Analysis From National Database of Health Insurance Claims and Specific Health Checkups of Japan

BACKGROUND

Patients with cancer were able to live longer due to improvements in cancer treatment. Additionally, cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the second leading cause of mortality in cancer survivors. However, epidemiological data on onco-CVD have not been sufficiently provided. We aimed to investigate the clinical characteristics of cancer in CVD patients using the National Database of Health Insurance Claims and Specific Health Checkups of Japan (NDB).

METHOD AND RESULTS

The NDB sampling dataset used in this study was randomly sampled 10% from the whole Diagnosis Procedure Combination (DPC) records from every January, April, July, and October from 2011 to 2015. The significance of the increase trend in the percentage of records in each disease group to the total number of all DPC records from 2011 to 2015 was checked with Chi-square test with a Bonferroni correction. The percentage of records in cancer with the CVD group to the total number of all DPC records significantly increased over time, and their average age also increased since 2011. Their proportion over 75 years was approximately 56 % in 2015. There was no difference in the cancer sites. However, the prevalence of heart failure dramatically elevated.

CONCLUSION

We were able to assess the increase in cancer among CVD patients using DPC inpatient records obtained from the NDB. Both cardiologists and oncologists should be more aware of this phenomenon.

Comparisons of drug-eluting balloon versus drug-eluting stent for the treatment of cancer patients presenting with acute myocardial infarction

BACKGROUND

Treatment for cancer patients presenting with acute myocardial infarction (AMI) remains challenging. The objective of the study was to investigate the safety and efficiency of drug eluting balloon (DEB) versus drug eluting stent (DES) in this high-risk group.

METHODS

Between 1st January 2017 and 1st January 2022, cancer patients admitted to Beijing Chaoyang Hospital with AMI were retrospectively enrolled. The primary endpoint was major adverse cardiovascular event (MACE). The secondary endpoints included major bleeding events, heart failure and cardiac complications.

RESULTS

A total of 164 cancer patients presenting with AMI were included in the final analysis. Patients treated with DEB had a numerically lower rate of MACE than those treated with DES during a median follow-up of 21.8 months (22.9% vs. 37.1%, p = 0.23). Patients treated with DEB had a trend towards lower rate of major bleeding events than patients treated with DES (6.3% vs. 18.1%, HR 2.96, 95% CI [0.88, 9.92], p = 0.08). There were no significant differences between the two groups with regards to the rate of heart failure (4.2% vs. 9.5%, p = 0.32) and cardiac complications (0.0% vs. 2.6%, p = 0.56).

CONCLUSIONS

The present study demonstrated that in cancer patients with AMI, DEB had a trend towards lower rate of major bleeding events and a numerically lower rate of MACE compared with DES.

Doxorubicin-Loaded Platelet Decoys for Enhanced Chemoimmunotherapy Against Triple-Negative Breast Cancer in Mice Model

Introduction

Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is a highly aggressive subtype with a poor prognosis. Current single-agent checkpoint therapy has limited effectiveness in TNBC patients. In this study, we developed doxorubicin-loaded platelet decoys (PD@Dox) for chemotherapy and induction of tumor immunogenic cell death (ICD). By combining PD-1 antibody, PD@Dox has the potential to enhance tumor therapy through chemoimmunotherapy in vivo.

Methods

Platelet decoys were prepared using 0.1% Triton X-100 and co-incubated with doxorubicin to obtain PD@Dox. Characterization of PDs and PD@Dox was performed using electron microscopy and flow cytometry. We evaluated the properties of PD@Dox to retain platelets through sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis, flow cytometry, and thromboelastometry. In vitro experiments assessed drug-loading capacity, release kinetics, and the enhanced antitumor activity of PD@Dox. The mechanism of PD@Dox was investigated through cell viability assays, apoptosis assays, Western blot analysis, and immunofluorescence staining. In vivo studies were performed using a TNBC tumor-bearing mouse model to assess the anticancer effects.

Results

Electron microscopic observations confirmed that platelet decoys and PD@Dox exhibited a round shape similar to normal platelets. Platelet decoys demonstrated superior drug uptake and loading capacity compared to platelets. Importantly, PD@Dox retained the ability to recognize and bind tumor cells. The released doxorubicin induced ICD, resulting in the release of tumor antigens and damage-related molecular patterns that recruit dendritic cells and activate antitumor immunity. Notably, the combination of PD@Dox and immune checkpoint blockade therapy using PD-1 antibody achieved significant therapeutic efficacy by blocking tumor immune escape and promoting ICD-induced T cell activation.

Conclusion

Our results suggest that PD@Dox, in combination with immune checkpoint blockade therapy, holds promise as a potential strategy for TNBC treatment.

Long-term risks of cardiovascular death in a population-based cohort of 1,141,675 older patients with cancer

BACKGROUND

previous studies have focused on the risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD)-related death in individual cancers, adolescents or all cancers.

OBJECTIVE

to evaluate the risk of CVD-related death in older patients with cancer.

METHODS

older patients with cancer (over 65 years) of 16 cancers diagnosed between 1975 and 2018 were screened out from the Surveillance, Epidemiology and End Results program. The proportion of deaths, competing risk regression models, standardized mortality ratios (SMRs) and absolute excess risks (AERs) were used to assess the risk of CVD-related death.

RESULTS

this study included 1,141,675 older patients (median follow-up: 13.5 years). Of the 16 individual cancers, the risk of CVD death exceeded primary neoplasm death in older patients with cancers of the breast, endometrium, vulva, prostate gland, penis and melanoma of the skin over time (high competing risk group). Compared to the general older population, older patients with cancer had higher SMR and AER of CVD-related death (SMR: 1.58-4.23; AER: 21.16-365.89), heart disease-related death (SMR: 1.14-4.16; AER: 16.29-301.68) and cerebrovascular disease-related death (SMR: 1.11-4.66; AER: 3.02-72.43), with the SMR trend varying with CVD-related death competing risk classifications. The risk of CVD-related death in the high-competing risk group was higher than in the low-competing risk group.

CONCLUSIONS

for older patients with cancer, six of 16 individual cancers, including breast, endometrium, vulva, prostate gland, penis and melanoma of the skin was at high risk of CVD-related death. Management for long-term cardiovascular risk in older patients with cancer is needed.

Cardiovascular Risks in Testicular Cancer: Assessment, Prevention, and Treatment

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Testicular cancer (TC) is the leading cancer in men between 18 and 39 years of age. Current treatment involves tumor resection followed by surveillance and/or one or more lines of cisplatin-based chemotherapy (CBCT) and/or bone marrow transplant (BMT). Ten years after treatment, CBCT has been associated with significant atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (CVD) including myocardial infarction (MI), stroke, and heightened rates of hypertension, dyslipidemia, diabetes mellitus, and metabolic syndrome (MetS). Additionally, low testosterone levels and hypogonadism contribute to MetS and may further drive CVD.

RECENT FINDINGS

CVD in TCS has been associated with worse physical functioning accompanied by role limitations, decreased energy, and decreased overall health. Exercise may play a role in ameliorating these effects. Systematic CVD screening practices are needed at TC diagnosis and in survivorship. We encourage a multidisciplinary partnership between primary care physicians, cardiologists, cardio-oncologists, medical oncologists, and survivorship providers to address these needs.

Established and Emerging Cancer Therapies and Cardiovascular System: Focus on Hypertension-Mechanisms and Mitigation

Cardiovascular disease and cancer are 2 of the leading causes of death worldwide. Although improvements in outcomes have been noted for both disease entities, the success of cancer therapies has come at the cost of at times very impactful adverse events such as cardiovascular events. Hypertension has been noted as both, a side effect as well as a risk factor for the cardiotoxicity of cancer therapies. Some of these dynamics are in keeping with the role of hypertension as a cardiovascular risk factor not only for heart failure, but also for the development of coronary and cerebrovascular disease, and kidney disease and its association with a higher morbidity and mortality overall. Other aspects such as the molecular mechanisms underlying the amplification of acute and long-term cardiotoxicity risk of anthracyclines and increase in blood pressure with various cancer therapeutics remain to be elucidated. In this review, we cover the latest clinical data regarding the risk of hypertension across a spectrum of novel anticancer therapies as well as the underlying known or postulated pathophysiological mechanisms. Furthermore, we review the acute and long-term implications for the amplification of the development of cardiotoxicity with drugs not commonly associated with hypertension such as anthracyclines. An outline of management strategies, including pharmacological and lifestyle interventions as well as models of care aimed to facilitate early detection and more timely management of hypertension in patients with cancer and survivors concludes this review, which overall aims to improve both cardiovascular and cancer-specific outcomes.

Exploring Vessel Wall Biology In Vivo by Ultrasensitive Total-Body PET

Ultrasensitive, high-resolution, extended-field-of-view total-body (TB) PET using the first-of-its-kind 194-cm axial-field-of-view uEXPLORER may facilitate the interrogation of biologic hallmarks of hitherto difficult-to-evaluate low-signal vessel wall pathology in cardiovascular disease. Methods: Healthy volunteers were imaged serially for up to 12 h after a standard dose of 18F-FDG (n = 15) or for up to 3 h after injection of a very low dose (about 5% of a standard dose; n = 15). A cohort undergoing standard 18F-FDG PET (n = 15) on a conventional scanner with a 22-cm axial field of view served as a comparison group. Arterial wall signal, crosstalk with hematopoietic and lymphoid organs, and image quality were analyzed using standardized techniques. Results: TB PET depicted the large vessel walls with excellent quality. The arterial wall could be imaged with high contrast up to 12 h after tracer injection. Ultralow-dose TB 18F-FDG images yielded a vessel wall signal and target-to-background ratio comparable to those of conventional-dose, short-axial-field-of-view PET. Crosstalk between vessel wall and lymphoid organs was identified with better accuracy in both TB PET cohorts than in conventional PET. Conclusion: TB PET enables detailed assessment of in vivo vessel wall biology and its crosstalk with other organs over an extended time window after tracer injection or at an ultralow tracer dose. These initial observations support the feasibility of serial imaging in low-risk populations and will stimulate future mechanistic studies or therapy monitoring in atherosclerosis and other vessel wall pathologies.

Impact of sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitors on heart failure and mortality in patients with cancer

OBJECTIVES

Sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitors (SGLT2i) reduce heart failure (HF) in at-risk patients and may possess antitumour effects. We examined the effect of SGLT2i on HF and mortality among patients with cancer and diabetes.

METHODS

This was a retrospective propensity score-matched cohort study involving adult patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus diagnosed with cancer between January 2010 and December 2021. The primary outcomes were hospitalisation for incident HF and all-cause mortality. The secondary outcomes were serious adverse events associated with SGLT2i.

RESULTS

From a total of 8640 patients, 878 SGLT2i recipients were matched to non-recipients. During a median follow-up of 18.8 months, SGLT2i recipients had a threefold lower rate of hospitalisation for incident HF compared with non-SGLT2i recipients (2.92 vs 8.95 per 1000 patient-years, p=0.018). In Cox regression and competing regression models, SGLT2i were associated with a 72% reduction in the risk of hospitalisation for HF (HR 0.28 (95% CI: 0.11 to 0.77), p=0.013; subdistribution HR 0.32 (95% CI: 0.12 to 0.84), p=0.021). The use of SGLT2i was also associated with a higher overall survival (85.3% vs 63.0% at 2 years, p<0.001). The risk of serious adverse events such as hypoglycaemia and sepsis was similar between the two groups.

CONCLUSIONS

The use of SGLT2i was associated with a lower rate of incident HF and prolonged overall survival in patients with cancer with diabetes mellitus.

Ponatinib Drives Cardiotoxicity by S100A8/A9-NLRP3-IL-1β Mediated Inflammation

BACKGROUND

The tyrosine kinase inhibitor ponatinib is the only treatment option for chronic myelogenous leukemia patients with T315I (gatekeeper) mutation. Pharmacovigilance analysis of Food and Drug Administration and World Health Organization datasets has revealed that ponatinib is the most cardiotoxic agent among all Food and Drug Administration-approved tyrosine kinase inhibitors in a real-world scenario. However, the mechanism of ponatinib-induced cardiotoxicity is unknown.

METHODS

The lack of well-optimized mouse models has hampered the in vivo cardio-oncology studies. Here, we show that cardiovascular comorbidity mouse models evidence a robust cardiac pathological phenotype upon ponatinib treatment. A combination of multiple in vitro and in vivo models was employed to delineate the underlying molecular mechanisms.

RESULTS

An unbiased RNA sequencing analysis identified the enrichment of dysregulated inflammatory genes, including a multifold upregulation of alarmins S100A8/A9, as a top hit in ponatinib-treated hearts. Mechanistically, we demonstrate that ponatinib activates the S100A8/A9-TLR4 (Toll-like receptor 4)-NLRP3 (NLR family pyrin domain-containing 3)-IL (interleukin)-1β signaling pathway in cardiac and systemic myeloid cells, in vitro and in vivo, thereby leading to excessive myocardial and systemic inflammation. Excessive inflammation was central to the cardiac pathology because interventions with broad-spectrum immunosuppressive glucocorticoid dexamethasone or specific inhibitors of NLRP3 (CY-09) or S100A9 (paquinimod) nearly abolished the ponatinib-induced cardiac dysfunction.

CONCLUSIONS

Taken together, these findings uncover a novel mechanism of ponatinib-induced cardiac inflammation leading to cardiac dysfunction. From a translational perspective, our results provide critical preclinical data and rationale for a clinical investigation into immunosuppressive interventions for managing ponatinib-induced cardiotoxicity.

Patient similarity and other artificial intelligence machine learning algorithms in clinical decision aid for shared decision-making in the Prevention of Cardiovascular Toxicity (PACT): a feasibility trial design

BACKGROUND

The many improvements in cancer therapies have led to an increased number of survivors, which comes with a greater risk of consequent/subsequent cardiovascular disease. Identifying effective management strategies that can mitigate this risk of cardiovascular complications is vital. Therefore, developing computer-driven and personalized clinical decision aid interventions that can provide early detection of patients at risk, stratify that risk, and recommend specific cardio-oncology management guidelines and expert consensus recommendations is critically important.

OBJECTIVES

To assess the feasibility, acceptability, and utility of the use of an artificial intelligence (AI)-powered clinical decision aid tool in shared decision making between the cancer survivor patient and the cardiologist regarding prevention of cardiovascular disease.

DESIGN

This is a single-center, double-arm, open-label, randomized interventional feasibility study. Our cardio-oncology cohort of > 4000 individuals from our Clinical Research Data Warehouse will be queried to identify at least 200 adult cancer survivors who meet the eligibility criteria. Study participants will be randomized into either the Clinical Decision Aid Group (where patients will use the clinical decision aid in addition to current practice) or the Control Group (current practice). The primary endpoint of this study is to assess for each patient encounter whether cardiovascular medications and imaging pursued were consistent with current medical society recommendations. Additionally, the perceptions of using the clinical decision tool will be evaluated based on patient and physician feedback through surveys and focus groups. This trial will determine whether a clinical decision aid tool improves cancer survivors' medication use and imaging surveillance recommendations aligned with current medical guidelines.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.Gov Identifier: NCT05377320.

Cardiac computed tomographic imaging in cardio-oncology: An expert consensus document of the Society of Cardiovascular Computed Tomography (SCCT). Endorsed by the International Cardio-Oncology Society (ICOS)

Cardio-Oncology is a rapidly growing sub-specialty of medicine, however, there is very limited guidance on the use of cardiac CT (CCT) in the care of Cardio-Oncology patients. In order to fill in the existing gaps, this Expert Consensus statement comprised of a multidisciplinary collaboration of experts in Cardiology, Radiology, Cardiovascular Multimodality Imaging, Cardio-Oncology, Oncology and Radiation Oncology aims to summarize current evidence for CCT applications in Cardio-Oncology and provide practice recommendations for clinicians.

Essentials of cardio-oncology

Cardio-oncology is a subspecialty that provides cardiac care for patients with cancer. Newer oncological agents have not only increased survivorship, but also sprouted novel cardiovascular toxicity (CVT) involving any component of the cardiovascular system, albeit with some preferential targets. Patients with cancer should undergo a baseline cardiovascular risk assessment and have individualised surveillance planned during cancer therapy and post treatment. The early diagnosis of CVT, by clinical history and examination along with imaging and laboratory analysis, is paramount. Management includes cardioprotective strategies and multidisciplinary decision-making regarding the risk-benefit ratio of oncological treatment based on CVT.

Iodine-123 β-methyl-P-iodophenyl-pentadecanoic Acid (123I-BMIPP) Myocardial Scintigraphy for Breast Cancer Patients and Possible Early Signs of Cancer-Therapeutics-Related Cardiac Dysfunction (CTRCD)

(1) Background: The mortality of breast cancer has decreased due to the advancement of cancer therapies. However, more patients are suffering from cancer-therapeutics-related cardiac dysfunction (CTRCD). Diagnostic and treatment guidelines for CTRCD have not been fully established yet. Ultrasound cardiogram (UCG) is the gold standard for diagnosis of CTRCD, but many breast cancer patients cannot undergo UCG due to the surgery wounds or anatomical reasons. The purpose of the study is to evaluate the usefulness of myocardial scintigraphy using Iodine-123 β-methyl-P-iodophenyl-pentadecanoic acid (123I-BMIPP) in comparison with UCG. (2) Methods: 100 breast cancer patients who received chemotherapy within 3 years underwent Thallium (201Tl) and 23I-BMIPP myocardial perfusion and metabolism scintigraphy. The images were visually evaluated by doctors and radiological technologists, and the grade of uptake reduction was scored by Heart Risk View-S software (Nihon Medi-Physics). The scores were deployed in a 17-segment model of the heart. The distribution of the scores were analyzed. (3) Results: Nine patients (9%) could not undergo UCG. No correlation was found between left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) and Heart Risk View-S scores of 201Tl myocardial perfusion scintigraphy nor those of BMIPP myocardial metabolism scintigraphy. In a 17-segment model of the heart, the scores of the middle rings were higher than for the basal ring. (4) Conclusions: Evaluation by UCG is not possible for some patients. Myocardial scintigraphy cannot serve as a perfect alternative to UCG. However, it will become the preferable second-choice screening test, as it could point out the early stage of CTRCD.

Advances in Multimodality Imaging in Cardio-Oncology: JACC State-of-the-Art Review

The population of patients with cancer is rapidly expanding, and the diagnosis and monitoring of cardiovascular complications greatly rely on imaging. Numerous advances in the field of cardio-oncology and imaging have occurred in recent years. This review presents updated and practical approaches for multimodality cardiovascular imaging in the cardio-oncology patient and provides recommendations for imaging to detect the myriad of adverse cardiovascular effects associated with antineoplastic therapy, such as cardiomyopathy, atherosclerosis, vascular toxicity, myocarditis, valve disease, and cardiac masses. Uniquely, we address the role of cardiovascular imaging in patients with pre-existing cardiomyopathy, pregnant patients, long-term survivors, and populations with limited resources. We also address future avenues of investigation and opportunities for artificial intelligence applications in cardio-oncology imaging. This review provides a uniform practical approach to cardiovascular imaging for patients with cancer.

Hypertension in Cancer Survivors: A Review of the Literature and Suggested Approach to Diagnosis and Treatment

BACKGROUND

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality among cancer survivors. Hypertension, which is common among cancer survivors with a prevalence of greater than 70% by age 50, potentiates the risk for CVD in a more than additive fashion. For example, childhood cancer survivors who develop hypertension may have up to a 12 times higher risk for heart failure than survivors who remain normotensive. Studies have shown that mild valvular disease (28% incidence), cardiomyopathy (7.4%), arrhythmias (4.6%), and coronary artery disease (3.8%) are among the most common CVDs in childhood cancer survivors. Among adolescent and young adult cancer survivors, the most common reasons for cardiovascular-related hospital admission are venous/lymphatic disease (absolute excess risk 19%), cardiomyopathy and arrhythmia (15%), hypertension (13%), and ischemic heart disease (12%). In addition, cancer therapies can increase the risk for hypertension and CVD. Therefore, early detection and treatment of hypertension is essential to reducing cardiovascular morbidity and mortality among survivors.

METHODS

We present a literature review, which identified over 20 clinical trials, systemic reviews, and meta-analyses (13 clinical trials, 8 systemic reviews or meta-analyses) by searching PubMed, Google Scholar, and the Cochrane Library for relevant articles addressing hypertension in cancer survivors.

RESULTS

Although our understanding of the complex relationship between cancer therapies and CVD has grown significantly over the past 2 decades, there remain several gaps in knowledge when specifically addressing CVD in the survivor population. This review provides an up-to-date survivor-centered approach to the screening and treatment of hypertension, which considers survivor-specific cardiovascular risk, applies guideline directed therapies when appropriate, screens for survivor-specific factors that may influence antihypertensive medication selection, and finally considers the prohypertensive mechanisms of antineoplastic agents as a potential target for antihypertensive medications.

CONCLUSIONS

Screening for and treating hypertension among survivors can promote cardiovascular health in this vulnerable population.

Contributions of the Women's Health Initiative to Cardiovascular Research: JACC State-of-the-Art Review

The WHI (Women's Health Initiative) enrolled 161,808 racially and ethnically diverse postmenopausal women, ages 50-79 years, from 1993 to 1998 at 40 clinical centers across the United States. In its clinical trial component, WHI evaluated 3 randomized interventions (menopausal hormone therapy; diet modification; and calcium/vitamin D supplementation) for the primary prevention of major chronic diseases, including cardiovascular disease, in older women. In the WHI observational study, numerous clinical, behavioral, and social factors have been evaluated as predictors of incident chronic disease and mortality. Although the original interventions have been completed, the WHI data and biomarker resources continue to be leveraged and expanded through ancillary studies to yield novel insights regarding cardiovascular disease prevention and healthy aging in women.

Cardiovascular Imaging in Cardio-Oncology: The Role of Echocardiography and Cardiac MRI in Modern Cardio-Oncology

Cardiovascular (CV) events are an increasingly common limitation of effective anticancer therapy. Over the last decade imaging has become essential to patients receiving contemporary cancer therapy. Herein we discuss the current state of CV imaging in cardio-oncology. We also provide a practical apparatus for the use of imaging in everyday cardiovascular care of oncology patients to improve outcomes for those at risk for cardiotoxicity, or with established cardiovascular disease. Finally, we consider future directions in the field given the wave of new anticancer therapies.

Training and Career Development in Cardio-Oncology Translational and Implementation Science

Cardiovascular disease is a leading cause of death in cancer survivors, after recurrence of the primary tumor or occurrence of a secondary malignancy. Consequently, the interdisciplinary field of cardio-oncology has grown rapidly in recent years to address the cardiovascular care needs of this unique population through clinical care and research initiatives. Here, the authors discuss the ideal infrastructure for training and career development in cardio-oncology translational and implementation science and emphasize the importance of the multidisciplinary cardiovascular team for both research and patient care. Cardio-oncology training opportunities in general cardiology, hematology/oncology, and specialized cardio-oncology clinical and research fellowships are also considered.

Prognostic significance of incidental suspected transthyretin amyloidosis on routine bone scintigraphy

BACKGROUND

Transthyretin amyloidosis (ATTR) is an occasional incidental finding on bone scintigraphy. We studied its prognostic impact in elderly patients.

METHODS

The study population consisted of 2000 patients aged over 70 years who underwent bone scintigraphies with clinical indications in three nuclear medicine departments (Kymenlaakso, Jorvi and Meilahti hospitals) in Finland. All studies were performed using 99mTechnetium labeled hydroxymethylene diphosphonate (HMDP). ATTR was suspected in patients with ≥grade 2 Perugini grade uptake (grade 0-3). Heart-to-contralateral ratio (H/CL) of ≥ 1.30 was considered positive for ATTR. The overall and cardiovascular mortality were obtained from the Finnish National Statistical Service.

RESULTS

There were a total of 1014 deaths (51%) and 177 cardiovascular deaths (9%) during median follow-up of 4 ± 2 years. ATTR was suspected in 69 patients (3.6%) of which 54 (2.7%) had grade 2 and 15 (.8%) had grade 3 uptake and in 47 patients (2.4%) by H/CL ratio. In multivariate analyses age, bone metastasis, H/CL ratio and grade 3 uptake were independent predictors of overall and cardiovascular mortality. Grade 2 uptake was a predictor of cardiovascular mortality.

CONCLUSIONS

A suspected ATTR as an incidental finding on bone scintigraphy predicts elevated overall and cardiovascular mortality in elderly patients.

Chest Pain in the Cancer Patient

Chest pain is one of the most common presenting symptoms in patients seeking care from a physician. Risk assessment tools and scores have facilitated prompt diagnosis and optimal management in these patients; however, it is unclear as to whether a standardised approach can adequately triage chest pain in cancer patients and survivors. This is of concern because cancer patients are often at an increased risk of cardiovascular mortality and morbidity given the shared risk factors between cancer and cardiovascular disease, compounded by the fact that certain anti-cancer therapies are associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular events that can persist for weeks and even years after treatment. This article describes the underlying mechanisms of the most common causes of chest pain in cancer patients with an emphasis on how their management may differ to that of non-cancer patients with chest pain. It will also highlight the role of the cardio-oncology team, who can aid in identifying cancer therapy-related cardiovascular side-effects and provide optimal multidisciplinary care for these patients.

Call for Formalized Pathways in Vascular Medicine Training: JACC Review Topic of the Week

The burden of vascular diseases and complexity of their management have been growing. Vascular medicine specialists may help to bridge gaps in care, especially as part of multidisciplinary teams. However, there is a limited number of vascular medicine specialists because of constraints in training. Despite established pathways for training in vascular medicine, there are obstacles that restrict completion of training in dedicated programs. A key factor is lack of funding as a result of inadequate recognition by key national accrediting and credentialing organizations. A concerted effort is required to overcome the obstacles to expand vascular medicine training programs and ultimately the pool of vascular medicine specialists. Well-trained vascular medicine specialists will be well positioned to ease the burden of vascular disease and optimize patient outcomes.

Breast cancer chemotherapy induces vascular dysfunction and hypertension through NOX4 dependent mechanism

Cardiovascular disease is the major cause of morbidity and mortality in breast cancer survivors. Chemotherapy contributes to this risk. We aimed to define the mechanisms of long-term vascular dysfunction caused by neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NACT) and identify novel therapeutic targets.We studied arteries from postmenopausal women who had undergone breast cancer treatment using docetaxel, doxorubicin and cyclophosphamide (NACT), and women with no history of such treatment matched for key clinical parameters. Mechanisms were explored in wild-type and Nox4-/- mice and human microvascular endothelial cells.Endothelium-dependent vasodilatation is severely impaired in patients after NACT, while endothelium-independent responses remain normal. This was mimicked by 24-hour exposure of arteries to NACT agents ex-vivo. When applied individually, only docetaxel impaired endothelial function in human vessels. Mechanistic studies showed that NACT increased inhibitory eNOS phosphorylation of threonine 495 in a ROCK-dependent manner and augmented vascular superoxide and hydrogen peroxide production and NADPH oxidase activity. Docetaxel increased expression of NADPH oxidase NOX4 in endothelial and smooth muscle cells and NOX2 in the endothelium. NOX4 increase in human arteries may be mediated epigenetically by diminished DNA methylation of the NOX4 promoter. Docetaxel induced endothelial dysfunction and hypertension in mice. These were prevented in Nox4-/- and by pharmacological inhibition of Nox4 or Rock.Commonly used chemotherapeutic agents, and in particular, docetaxel, alter vascular function by promoting inhibitory phosphorylation of eNOS and enhancing ROS production by NADPH oxidases.

Polygenic Risk Scores for Blood Pressure to Assess the Risk of Severe Bevacizumab-Induced Hypertension in Cancer Patients (Alliance)

Hypertension is a common bevacizumab-induced toxicity. No markers are available to predict patients at risk of developing hypertension. We hypothesized that genetic risk of essential hypertension, as measured by a blood pressure polygenic risk score (PRS), would be associated with risk of severe bevacizumab-induced hypertension. PRSs were calculated for 1,027 bevacizumab-treated patients of European descent with cancer from four clinical trials (Alliance for Clinical Trials in Oncology (Alliance) / Cancer and Leukemia Group B (CALGB) 80303, 40503, 90401, 40502) using summary systolic blood pressure (SBP) and diastolic blood pressure (DBP) genome-wide association results obtained from 757,601 individuals of European descent. The association between PRS and grade 3 bevacizumab-induced hypertension (Common Toxicity Criteria for Adverse Events version 3) in each trial was performed by multivariable logistic regression. Fixed-effect meta-analyses odds ratios (ORs) per standard deviation (SD) of the association of PRS (quantitative) and hypertension across trials were estimated by inverse-variance weighting. PRSs were additionally stratified into quintiles, with the bottom quintile as the referent group. The OR of the association between hypertension and each quintile vs. the referent group was determined by logistic regression. The most significant PRS (quantitative)-hypertension association included up to 67 single-nucleotide variants (SNPs) associated with SBP (P = 0.0077, OR per SD = 1.31, 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.07-1.60), and up to 53 SNPs associated with DBP (P = 0.0209, OR per SD = 1.27, 95% CI, 1.04-1.56). Patients in the top quintile had a higher risk of developing bevacizumab-induced hypertension compared with patients in the bottom quintile using SNPs associated with SBP (P = 4.75 × 10^-4 , OR = 3.72, 95% CI, 1.84-8.16) and DBP (P = 0.076, OR = 1.83, 95% CI, 0.95-3.64). Genetic variants associated with essential hypertension, mainly SBP, increase the risk of severe bevacizumab-induced hypertension.

Cardio-onco-metabolism: metabolic remodelling in cardiovascular disease and cancer

Cardiovascular disease and cancer are the two leading causes of morbidity and mortality in the world. The emerging field of cardio-oncology has revealed that these seemingly disparate disease processes are intertwined, owing to the cardiovascular sequelae of anticancer therapies, shared risk factors that predispose individuals to both cardiovascular disease and cancer, as well the possible potentiation of cancer growth by cardiac dysfunction. As a result, interest has increased in understanding the fundamental biological mechanisms that are central to the relationship between cardiovascular disease and cancer. Metabolism, appropriate regulation of energy, energy substrate utilization, and macromolecular synthesis and breakdown are fundamental processes for cellular and organismal survival. In this Review, we explore the emerging data identifying metabolic dysregulation as an important theme in cardio-oncology. We discuss the growing recognition of metabolic reprogramming in cardiovascular disease and cancer and view the novel area of cardio-oncology through the lens of metabolism.

Associations between the triglyceride-glucose index and cardiovascular disease in over 150,000 cancer survivors: a population-based cohort study

Background

The prevention of subsequent cardiovascular disease (CVD) is an essential part of cancer survivorship care. We conducted the present study to investigate the association between the TyG index (a surrogate marker of insulin resistance) and the risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) events in cancer survivors.

Methods

Adult cancer patients, who underwent routine health examinations during 2009–2010 and were survived for more than 5 years as of January 1, 2011, were followed for hospitalization of CVD (either ischemic heart disease, stroke, or heart failure) until December 2020. Cox model was used to calculate hazard ratios associated with baseline TyG index (log_e [fasting triglyceride (mg) × fasting glucose (mg)/2]) for the CVD hospitalization.

Results

A total of 155,167 cancer survivors (mean age 59.9 ± 12.0 years, female 59.1%) were included in this study. A graded positive association was observed between TyG and CVD hospitalization. An 8% elevated risk for CVD hospitalization was observed for a TyG index of 8-8.4 (aHR 1.08 [95% CI 1.01–1.14]); 10% elevated risk for a TyG index of 8.5–8.9 (aHR 1.10 [95% CI 1.03–1.17]); 23% elevated risk for a TyG index of 9.0-9.4 (aHR 1.23 [95% CI 1.15–1.31]); 34% elevated risk for a TyG index of 9.5–9.9 (aHR 1.34 [95% CI 1.23–1.47]); and 55% elevated risk for a TyG index ≥ 10 compared to the reference group (TyG index < 8). Per 1-unit increase in the TyG index, a 16% increase in CVD hospitalization and a 45% increase in acute myocardial infarction hospitalization were demonstrated. Graded positive associations were evident for atherosclerotic CVD subtypes, such as ischemic heart disease, acute myocardial infarction, and ischemic stroke, but not for hemorrhagic stroke or heart failure.

Conclusions

The TyG index may serve as a simple surrogate marker for the risk stratification of future CVD events, particularly atherosclerotic subtypes, in cancer survivors.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12933-022-01490-z.

The new HFA/ICOS risk assessment tool to identify patients with chronic myeloid leukaemia at high risk of cardiotoxicity

AIMS

Tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) used to treat chronic myeloid leukaemia (CML) can cause cardiovascular adverse events. So far, the Systematic Coronary Risk Evaluation (SCORE) charts of the European Society of Cardiology (ESC) have been used to identify cancer patients at increased cardiovascular risk. The primary aim of our study was to evaluate the usefulness of the new cardiovascular risk assessment model proposed by the Cardio-Oncology Study Group of the Heart Failure Association (HFA) of the ESC in collaboration with the International Cardio-Oncology Society (ICOS) to stratify the cardiovascular risk in CML patients, compared with SCORE risk charts. The secondary aim was to establish the incidence of adverse arterial events (AEs) in patients with CML treated with TKIs and the influence of preventive treatment with aspirin.

METHODS AND RESULTS

A retrospective single-centre observational study was carried out on 58 patients (32 men and 26 women; mean age ± SD: 59 ± 15 years) with CML treated with TKIs for a median period of 43 ± 31 months. Cardiological evaluation was performed and cardiovascular risk was estimated with SCORE risk charts and with the new risk assessment tool proposed by HFA/ICOS. AEs were recorded. According to SCORE charts and the new HFA/ICOS risk stratification tool, respectively, 46% (Group A1) and 60% (Group A2) of patients were at high-very high risk, and 54% (Group B1) and 40% (Group B2) at low-moderate risk. AEs were significantly more frequent in Group A1 than Group B1 (P value < 0.01) when considered overall; they were significantly more frequent in Group A2 than Group B2 either overall or considered individually. HFA/ICOS risk stratification tool was significantly more sensitive than SCORE (P < 0.01) in identifying patients at higher risk of cardiovascular toxicity. In addition, we did not find AEs in patients pretreated with aspirin.

CONCLUSIONS

The new HFA/ICOS risk stratification model allows a more tailored cardiovascular risk stratification in patients with CML and it is more sensitive than SCORE charts.

Shining Damaged Hearts: Immunotherapy-Related Cardiotoxicity in the Spotlight of Nuclear Cardiology

The emerging use of immunotherapies in cancer treatment increases the risk of immunotherapy-related cardiotoxicity. In contrast to conventional chemotherapy, these novel therapies have expanded the forms and presentations of cardiovascular damage to a broad spectrum from asymptomatic changes to fulminant short- and long-term complications in terms of cardiomyopathy, arrythmia, and vascular disease. In cancer patients and, particularly, cancer patients undergoing (immune-)therapy, cardio-oncological monitoring is a complex interplay between pretherapeutic risk assessment, identification of impending cardiotoxicity, and post-therapeutic surveillance. For these purposes, the cardio-oncologist can revert to a broad spectrum of nuclear cardiological diagnostic workup. The most promising commonly used nuclear medicine imaging techniques in relation to immunotherapy will be discussed in this review article with a special focus on the continuous development of highly specific molecular markers and steadily improving methods of image generation. The review closes with an outlook on possible new developments of molecular imaging and advanced image evaluation techniques in this exciting and increasingly growing field of immunotherapy-related cardiotoxicity.

Ventricular Sigmoid Septum as a Risk Factor for Anthracycline-Induced Cancer Therapeutics-Related Cardiac Dysfunction in Patients With Malignant Lymphoma

Background: Identifying risk factors for cancer therapeutics-related cardiac dysfunction (CTRCD) is essential for the early detection and prompt initiation of medial therapy for CTRCD. No study has investigated whether the sigmoid septum is a risk factor for anthracycline-induced CTRCD.

Methods and Results: We enrolled 167 patients with malignant lymphoma who received a CHOP-like regimen from January 2008 to December 2017 and underwent both baseline and follow-up echocardiography. Patients with left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) ≤50% were excluded. CTRCD was defined as a ≥10% decline in LVEF and LVEF <50% after chemotherapy. The angle between the anterior wall of the aorta and the ventricular septal surface (ASA) was measured to quantify the sigmoid septum. CTRCD was observed in 36 patients (22%). Mean LVEF and global longitudinal strain (GLS) were lower, left ventricular mass index was higher, and ASA was smaller in patients with CTRCD. In a multivariable Cox proportional hazard analysis, GLS (hazard ratio [HR] per 1% decrease 1.20; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.07–1.35) and ASA (HR per 1° increase 0.97; 95% CI 0.95–0.99) were identified as independent determinants of CTRCD. An integrated discrimination improvement evaluation confirmed the significant incremental value of ASA for developing CTRCD.

Conclusions: Smaller ASA was an independent risk factor and had significant incremental value for CTRCD in patients with malignant lymphoma who received the CHOP-like regimen.

Cancer Therapies and Vascular Toxicities

OPINION STATEMENT

Vascular events have become an important issue in the overall management of cancer patients. They usually result from a combination of (i) direct or indirect toxicity of anticancer treatments, (ii) a higher prevalence of cardiovascular risk factors in cancer patients, and (iii) prolonged exposure to treatments due to an increasing patient survival rate. In addition to conventional chemotherapies and radiotherapy, targeted therapies and immunotherapies have been developed which improve the prognosis of cancer patients but sometimes at the cost of vascular toxicity, which can lead to systemic or pulmonary hypertension and arterial/venous thromboembolic events. Endothelial dysfunction, a procoagulant state and metabolic disorders are the three main pathophysiological patterns leading to cancer treatment-related vascular toxicity. This issue is challenging because serious vascular adverse events can necessitate cancer treatment being put on hold or stopped, which could compromise patient survival. In addition to increasing the risk of thrombotic adverse events, cancer therapies may lead to an increased risk of bleeding, especially in treatments with vascular endothelial growth factor inhibitors. Therefore, we can define vasculo-oncology as a part of the cardio-oncology specialty; its aims are to predict, prevent, screen, and treat vascular toxicity related to cancer treatments. While the level of evidence is low regarding the management of vascular toxicity during cancer therapy, cardiologists and specialists in vascular diseases should closely collaborate with oncologists and hematologists to determine the optimal strategy for each patient.

Artificial intelligence opportunities in cardio-oncology: Overview with spotlight on electrocardiography

Cardiovascular disease is a leading cause of death among cancer survivors, second only to cancer recurrence or development of new tumors. Cardio-oncology has therefore emerged as a relatively new specialty focused on prevention and management of cardiovascular consequences of cancer therapies. Yet challenges remain regarding precision and accuracy with predicting individuals at highest risk for cardiotoxicity. Barriers such as access to care also limit screening and early diagnosis to improve prognosis. Thus, developing innovative approaches for prediction and early detection of cardiovascular illness in this population is critical. In this review, we provide an overview of the present state of machine learning applications in cardio-oncology. We begin by outlining some factors that should be considered while utilizing machine learning algorithms. We then examine research in which machine learning has been applied to improve prediction of cardiac dysfunction in cancer survivors. We also highlight the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in conjunction with electrocardiogram (ECG) to predict cardiac malfunction and also atrial fibrillation (AF), and we discuss the potential role of wearables. Additionally, the article summarizes future prospects and critical takeaways for the application of machine learning in cardio-oncology. This study is the first in a series on artificial intelligence in cardio-oncology, and complements our manuscript on echocardiography and other forms of imaging relevant to cancer survivors cared for in cardiology clinical practice.

Incident Cardiovascular Disease Among Adults With Cancer: A Population-Based Cohort Study

Background

Patients with cancer and cancer survivors are at increased risk for incident heart failure, but there are conflicting data on the long-term risk for other cardiovascular events and how such risk may vary by cancer site.

Objectives

The aim of this study was to determine the impact of a new cancer diagnosis on the risk for fatal and nonfatal cardiovascular events.

Methods

Using administrative health care databases, a population-based retrospective cohort study was conducted among 4,519,243 adults residing in Alberta, Canada, from April 2007 to December 2018. Participants with new cancer diagnoses during the study period were compared with those without cancer with respect to risk for subsequent cardiovascular events (cardiovascular mortality, myocardial infarction, stroke, heart failure, and pulmonary embolism) using time-to-event survival models after adjusting for sociodemographic data and comorbidities.

Results

A total of 224,016 participants with new cancer diagnoses were identified, as well as 73,360 cardiovascular deaths and 470,481 nonfatal cardiovascular events during a median follow-up period of 11.8 years. After adjustment, participants with cancer had HRs of 1.33 (95% CI: 1.29-1.37) for cardiovascular mortality, 1.01 (95% CI: 0.97-1.05) for myocardial infarction, 1.44 (95% CI: 1.41-1.47) for stroke, 1.62 (95% CI: 1.59-1.65) for heart failure, and 3.43 (95% CI: 3.37-3.50) for pulmonary embolism, compared with participants without cancer. Cardiovascular risk was highest for patients with genitourinary, gastrointestinal, thoracic, nervous system and hematologic malignancies.

Conclusions

A new cancer diagnosis is independently associated with a significantly increased risk for cardiovascular death and nonfatal morbidity regardless of cancer site. These findings highlight the need for a collaborative approach to health care for patients with cancer and cancer survivors.

Risk Factors for the Comorbidity of Hypertension and Renal Cell Carcinoma in the Cardio-Oncologic Era and Treatment for Tumor-Induced Hypertension

Advances in tumor diagnosis and treatment, especially the use of targeted therapies, have remarkably improved the survival rate of patients with renal cell carcinoma (RCC), accompanied by higher hypertension (HTN) incidence among patients with RCC, reflecting the coming of a cardio-oncologic era. Therefore, for patients with RCC and HTN simultaneously, finding risk factors for the comorbidity and giving better clinical treatment have been urgent problems. In this review, we thoroughly investigated risk factors for the comorbidity of HTN and RCC based on preclinical and clinical studies. Firstly, RCC and HTN may have common risk factors, such as obesity, smoking, and other modifiable lifestyles. Secondly, RCC and HTN may lead to each other directly or indirectly by their therapies. We then discussed measures of reducing the comorbidity and treatment of HTN in patients with RCC. We also discussed the deficiency of current studies and pointed out future directions. In conclusion, this review aims to deepen the understanding of cardio-oncology and bring benefit to the population who are at high risk of getting or have already got RCC and HTN simultaneously.