A recent statement from the Heart Failure Society of America highlights the link between heart failure (HF) and cancer, with shared mechanisms driving both conditions. Published in the Journal of Cardiac Failure, it emphasizes the need for coordinated care between cardiology and oncology, standardized cardiac imaging protocols, and efforts to address treatment disparities. The concept of “permissive cardiotoxicity” is introduced to balance effective cancer therapy with manageable cardiac risks through targeted cardioprotective strategies.

The report also identifies HF with preserved ejection fraction as an underrecognized cardiac toxicity linked to cancer therapies like CAR-T and BTK inhibitors. It stresses individualized risk assessments for heart transplantation and supports the use of left ventricular assist devices for chemotherapy-induced cardiomyopathy. The statement underscores the importance of managing immune checkpoint inhibitor-associated myocarditis, integrating palliative care to improve quality of life, and addressing health inequities affecting marginalized populations. Researchers hope this resource will guide clinicians in managing patients at the crossroads of HF and cancer.

Reference: NYU Langone. NYU Langone researchers address the challenges of heart failure in cancer patients. News Medical. Published Oct 16, 2024. Accessed November 6, 2024. https://www.news-medical.net/news/20241016/NYU-Langone-researchers-address-the-challenges-of-heart-failure-in-cancer-patients.aspx