Journal-based CME Course: Association of Breast Cancer Irradiation With Cardiac Toxic Effects – A Narrative Review

Activity ID

8221

Expires

June 17, 2024

Format Type

Journal-based

CME Credit

1

Fee

$30

CME Provider: JAMA Oncology

Description of CME Course

Importance  To promptly recognize and manage cardiovascular (CV) risk factors before, during, and after cancer treatment, decreasing the risk of cancer therapy–related cardiac dysfunction is crucial. After recent advances in breast cancer treatment, mortality rates from cancer have decreased, and the prevalence of survivors with a potentially higher CV disease risk has increased. Cardiovascular risks might be associated with the multimodal approach, including systemic therapies and breast radiotherapy (RT).

Observations  The heart disease risk seems to be higher in patients with tumors in the left breast, when other classic CV risk factors are present, and when adjunctive anthracycline-based chemotherapy is administered, suggesting a synergistic association. Respiratory control as well as modern RT techniques and their possible further refinement may decrease the prevalence and severity of radiation-induced heart disease. Several pharmacological cardioprevention strategies for decreasing cardiac toxic effects have been identified in several guidelines. However, further research is needed to ascertain the feasibility of these strategies in routine practice.

Conclusions and Relevance  This review found that evidence-based recommendations are lacking on the modalities for and intensity of heart disease screening, surveillance of patients after RT, and treatment of these patients. A multidisciplinary and multimodal approach is crucial to guide optimal management.

Disclaimers

1. This activity is accredited by the American Medical Association.
2. This activity is free to AMA members.

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