Cardio-Oncology: protecting the Heart During Cancer Treatment – Insights from Professor Camelia Diaconu
Professor dr. Camelia diaconu, a leading cardiologist and internal medicine physician at the Carol Davila University of medicine and Pharmacy in Bucharest, and Head of the Clinical Department of Internal Medicine at the Bucharest Emergency Clinical Hospital, is highlighting the critical importance of cardiovascular care for patients undergoing cancer treatment. Her work focuses on the burgeoning field of cardio-oncology, a discipline dedicated to understanding and mitigating the cardiac risks associated with oncological therapies.
Professor Diaconu emphasizes that oncological treatments can unfortunately accelerate the growth of coronary atherosclerosis, possibly leading to severe complications. “A cardiological consultation before initiating cancer therapy allows for correct cardiovascular risk stratification, and consequently, a more informed therapeutic decision,” she states. This proactive approach is becoming increasingly vital as research in cardio-oncology expands.
Recent studies, presented at both national and international medical congresses – including dedicated sessions at the Carol Davila University of Medicine and PharmacyS congress – culminated in the publication of the first international guide dedicated to cardio-oncological patients by the European Society of Cardiology at the end of 2022.
Professor Diaconu explains that comprehensive cardiovascular monitoring is key. “Cardiovascular monitoring of oncological patients by ECG, cardiac ultrasound, blood pressure holter, or even cardiac MRI can provide importent facts to both the oncologist and the cardiologist regarding the exacerbation of pre-existing cardiovascular conditions or the occurrence of complications following oncological treatment, especially after the governance of anthracyclines.” She further cautions that side effects like emetic syndrome, common in oncology, can cause significant electrolyte imbalances impacting heart function. The risk is compounded in patients with chronic kidney disease, who are already prone to tough-to-control hypertension and an increased risk of stroke or myocardial infarction due to accelerated atherosclerosis and vascular calcification.
the intersection of mental and physical health is also a growing concern. Professor Diaconu points to the emerging field of psycho-oncology, noting that even treatments for depression, such as tricyclic antidepressants, can affect the cardiovascular system and require careful monitoring, particularly in patients with multiple health issues and complex medication regimens. The first European psycho-cardiology guide was recently published at the European Society of Cardiology Congress in Madrid.
Professor Diaconu will be addressing crucial questions surrounding the care of oncology patients with multiple health conditions in an upcoming appearance on the REConCHILLiant show on November 16, 2025. She will be providing expert answers to questions including: how to properly monitor these complex cases, the importance of personalized treatment plans, recognizing the signs of cardiovascular decompensation in cancer patients, and the dangers of self-treatment or following non-medical advice.
Notably, Professor Diaconu reveals a concerning statistic: “One out of six oncological patients presents cardiotoxicity phenomena associated with chemotherapy; we mention heart rhythm disorders, myocarditis but also arterial hypertension or migratory paraneoplastic thrombophlebitis.” This underscores the urgent need for integrated cardio-oncological care to ensure the best possible outcomes for cancer patients.
(producer: Daniela Rei Vişan)
