Our researchers developed and validated a statistical model to determine a patient’s risk of heart failure or cardiomyopathy following breast cancer treatment as part of a collaborative effort. The primary objective of treatment for breast cancer has long been survival. The five-year relative survival rate for early-stage (localized) invasive breast cancer is now above 99 percent with early detection and targeted therapies. Yet as more women live longer, we’ve learned that some breast cancer treatments can raise their risk of developing a heart condition later in life.
The first standard risk stratification is presented in groundbreaking research by MHRI, Georgetown University, and Kaiser Permanente Southern California. It has the potential to assist healthcare professionals in customizing breast cancer treatment and reducing patients’ risk of cardiovascular disease in the future. In the course of our research, which was recently published in JAMA Oncology, we developed and tested a statistical model that can identify a patient’s risk of developing a heart condition before they even begin cancer treatment.
Since its inception, MedStar Health has recognized the significance of heart health in cancer treatment. Our dedicated Cardio-Oncology Program, the first of its kind in the region, is designed to protect patients throughout their treatment journey.
Cardiologists and oncologists work together in this partnership between MedStar Heart and Vascular Institute and Georgetown Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center to provide proactive risk assessment and real-time imaging to monitor heart function and treat potential issues early. This important work to protect breast cancer patients’ heart health is supported by our research.
utilizing data from the past to see into the future
People who survive breast cancer have a higher risk of cardiovascular disease, according to studies. conditions than individuals without cancer. Cardiomyopathy, heart failure, and rhythm disorders are among the most common long-term health risks for cancer survivors. The goal of our study was to find a solution to this difficult problem: how can we predict a patient’s heart health ten years from now when they are diagnosed with breast cancer? We found the solution in a lot of data.
We analyzed the anonymous health information of more than 26,000 women who were diagnosed with early-stage invasive breast cancer between 2008 and 2020 in collaboration with Georgetown and Kaiser Permanente Southern California. Predicting risk isn’t just about the type of chemotherapy or radiation therapy a patient receives. We looked at each patient’s health before and after breast cancer treatment, as well as their heart health, to get a real sense of the risk.
