Adults treated with cancer immunotherapy face a heightened risk of cardiovascular disease hospitalizations, including heart failure, stroke, and myocardial infarction, according to a global propensity-matched cohort study of over 30,000 patients published in the Journal of Clinical Oncology Oncology Practice.
Cardiovascular Risks Linked to Cancer Immunotherapy
A major global study analyzing over 30,000 patients reveals that individuals treated with immunotherapy face a relative risk (RR) of 1.4 for cardiovascular disease major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) hospitalizations compared to historical chemotherapy controls. According to Bogda Koczwara, Director of Australian Research Centre for Cancer Survivorship, this elevated risk remains consistent across multiple cardiac events, including heart failure, stroke, and myocardial infarction. Furthermore, the data shows that the extent of this risk varies depending on the specific type of immunotherapy administered to the patient.
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IC-OS and MASCC Clinical Practice Statement on Cardio-Oncology
To address these growing concerns, the International Cardio-Oncology Society (IC-OS) and the Multinational Association of Supportive Care in Cancer (MASCC) released a comprehensive joint clinical practice statement. Ozaki, Cherith J. Iyenger, Hope S. Rugo, and Bogda Koczwara.
According to the statement’s authors, proactive management of cardiovascular risk is a critical component of delivering safe, comprehensive modern cancer treatment.
Managing Cardiotoxicity in Cancer Survivors
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main finding of the IC-OS and MASCC clinical practice statement?
The statement outlines evidence-based strategies for the prevention and management of cardiovascular disease in adults diagnosed with cancer, emphasizing proactive cardiovascular care alongside oncology treatments.
How much higher is the cardiovascular risk with immunotherapy?
According to the study highlighted by Bogda Koczwara, patients treated with immunotherapy face a relative risk (RR) of 1.4 for cardiovascular disease MACE hospitalizations compared to historical chemotherapy controls.
Which cardiovascular events are most commonly associated with immunotherapy?
The elevated risks span heart failure, stroke, and myocardial infarction, though the exact level of risk varies based on the specific immunotherapy agent used.
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