Cancer treatments can be lifesaving—but some therapies, particularly chemotherapy, may carry risks to your heart health. At Gregory Rhodes MD Cancer Center, we take a holistic approach to treatment, working to protect both your body and your heart throughout your cancer journey.
Chemotherapy is a powerful treatment that targets fast-growing cancer cells. It’s often given through an IV, allowing medications to circulate through the bloodstream and attack cancer throughout the body.
While chemotherapy is highly effective for many cancer types, it can also affect healthy tissues—including the heart and blood vessels.
Some chemotherapy drugs have been linked to cardiovascular side effects such as:
Not everyone will experience these side effects. The risk depends on the specific medication used, your dosage, and your existing heart health.
Before beginning chemotherapy, your care team may perform baseline heart function tests to assess your cardiovascular health. At BASS Cancer Center, we often collaborate with cardiologists to ensure your heart is closely monitored before, during, and after treatment.
If heart-related concerns arise, your treatment plan may be adjusted to reduce risk. After treatment, you may also receive follow-up care to monitor long-term heart health, especially if you had risk factors before starting chemotherapy.
While chemotherapy does have potential side effects, including cardiovascular ones, it remains one of the most effective tools for treating aggressive or advanced cancer. For many patients, the benefits outweigh the risks—especially when heart health is closely managed throughout the process.
Every patient is different. Your cancer team will work with you to weigh the risks and benefits of treatment and recommend the safest, most effective plan for your needs.
Medical advances are continuing to improve the safety of cancer treatments. New therapies are being developed to minimize damage to healthy tissue—including the heart—while still effectively fighting cancer.
At Gregory Rhodes MD Cancer Center, we are committed to giving you the highest level of care with compassion, coordination, and expertise. If you or a loved one are starting treatment and have questions about heart health, we’re here to help.
Request a Consultation
Call us at (925) 433-8786 to learn more about your treatment options.
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