Breast cancer patients with a high body mass index (BMI) face an increased risk of heart damage during chemotherapy, according to a recent study presented at the American College of Cardiology (ACC) Latin America 2023 conference. The study, conducted in the North-East region of Colombia, found that 11.94% of breast cancer patients with a high BMI experienced heart damage, known as cardiotoxicity, during chemotherapy.
Cardiotoxicity is a rising concern in cancer care, but research on the topic is limited in certain regions. The study aimed to shed light on the prevalence and risk factors associated with cardiotoxicity in breast cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy. The researchers used an anonymized database of breast cancer patients who received chemotherapy with doxorubicin or trastuzumab between January and December 2021. Only patients with baseline echocardiograms and at least one follow-up echocardiogram were included in the analysis.
Of the 67 patients included in the study, the average age was 55 years old, and the mean BMI was 26.18 kg/m². The study cohort also had a range of other characteristics, including obesity (20.9%), hypertension (14.93%), and Type 2 diabetes (13.43%). All patients had a normal left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) before starting chemotherapy. LVEF is a measure of the amount of blood the heart pumps out during each beat, and a normal LVEF is 50% or higher.
The results revealed that 11.94% of patients experienced cardiotoxicity during chemotherapy. The only identifiable risk factor for developing cardiotoxicity was a body mass index of 25 and above, indicating overweight or obesity. The researchers note that obesity increases the risk of breast cancer and cardiovascular diseases such as heart failure. However, obesity is often not properly managed compared to other prevalent risk factors like high blood pressure.
According to lead author Dr. Ivetteh Gaibor Santos, clinicians should adopt a comprehensive approach to address obesity in cancer patients before starting chemotherapy. This may involve pre-treatment assessments, lifestyle interventions, and cardiovascular risk management tailored to each patient’s needs and based on evidence-based guidelines. The researchers emphasize the importance of early diagnosis and effective management of cardiotoxicity and related factors to minimize adverse outcomes.
The study findings highlight the need for increased awareness among healthcare professionals and the general population about the potential risks of cardiotoxicity during cancer treatment. By recognizing the role of obesity as a predisposing factor, clinicians can take proactive steps to mitigate its impact on patients.
Dr. Gaibor Santos expressed optimism about the future of cardio-oncology research in Colombia, noting the potential benefits for many patients. She believes that further investigations in this field will help uncover additional insights and improve patient outcomes.
The American College of Cardiology (ACC) is a global leader in transforming cardiovascular care and promoting heart health. For over 70 years, the ACC has provided professional medical education and supported cardiovascular professionals worldwide. Through its various initiatives and resources, the ACC aims to optimize patient care and outcomes by leveraging science, knowledge, and innovation.
The study presented at the ACC Latin America 2023 conference contributes to the growing body of knowledge on the intersection of breast cancer treatment and cardiovascular health. By identifying the link between high BMI and increased risk of cardiotoxicity, the study reinforces the importance of addressing obesity in cancer care and tailoring interventions to improve patient outcomes.
