The Hidden Danger of Life-Saving Treatments

For countless cancer survivors in Europe and the United States, anthracyclines have been a game-changer, proving effective against various cancers like breast, ovarian, and lymphoma. However, this lifesaving treatment comes at a cost, as many patients face severe chronic heart problems—a condition known as anthracycline-induced cardiotoxicity. Raising awareness and preventing these heart issues has become vital in ensuring the long-term wellbeing of survivors.

Breakthrough Insights from Experts

At the 2025 European Society of Cardiology (ESC) Cardio-Oncology Annual Conference in Florence, renowned expert Dr. Borja Ibáñez shared crucial new preventive strategies aimed at mitigating these cardiac risks. The use of sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 (SGLT2) inhibitors and innovative therapies like remote ischemic conditioning are being explored as solutions. Dr. Ibáñez, a Professor and the Scientific Director of the Spanish National Centre for Cardiovascular Research, leads the RESILIENCE project, which is designed to lower heart failure incidence in cancer survivors.

Understanding the Scope of the Problem

Individuals who have battled cancer face higher risks of cardiovascular diseases, including heart failure and strokes, even when conventional risk factors are not present. Hence, healthcare providers are urged to routinely evaluate cardiovascular risks before, during, and after cancer treatments. The Heart Failure Association and International Cardio-Oncology Society have established scoring systems to classify patients and their associated risks based on various health indicators.

The Stats Tell a Stark Story

A recent study involving over 1,000 patients revealed startling statistics: out of those assessed, 54% were considered low risk, while 31% fell into the moderate risk category. Alarmingly, 14% were high risk, and 0.9% were evaluated as very high risk. The study found that the likelihood of symptomatic cardiac dysfunction significantly increased with higher risk scores, emphasizing the need for tailored follow-up care.

Innovative Prevention Strategies You Need to Know About

Dr. Ibáñez also introduced ground-breaking strategies to counter this threat. In a preclinical trial with SGLT2 inhibitor empagliflozin, results showed it provided meaningful cardioprotection when paired with doxorubicin, an anthracycline. This combination not only improved heart function but also enhanced cardiac energy efficiency, paving the way for further exploration in human clinical trials.

Additionally, the RESILIENCE project is investigating remote ischemic conditioning, a novel non-invasive technique where a blood-pressure cuff is periodically inflated and deflated. This method attempts to protect the heart during the anthracycline treatment phase. Initial findings have enrolled 355 patients at high risk—indicating a promising future for cancer care.

A Collective Effort for a Healthier Future

Dr. Ibáñez highlighted this unique collaboration, which includes hospitals and research teams across six European countries, as a significant advancement in cardio-oncology. With ongoing enrollment expected to reach 608 participants, these efforts could lead to groundbreaking practices in protecting cancer survivors from heart issues.

Final Thoughts and Looking Ahead

As Dr. Ibáñez notes, this pioneering trial marks a pivotal moment. For the first time, cancer patients undergoing anthracycline treatment have the opportunity to adopt preventive measures that might meaningfully decrease their chances of experiencing heart failure later in life.

Stay tuned for the continuing developments from this landmark initiative that promises to reshape the landscape of cancer treatment and cardiovascular health.