Cardio-Oncology in practice: Insights from a retrospective study in Argentina

Abstract Background The rise in global cancer incidence and survivorship between 2010 and 2019, driven by advancements in diagnostics and targeted therapies, has been accompanied by an increase in cardiovascular toxicity. Cardio-Oncology services have emerged as essential for optimizing cardiovascular health in cancer patients. Objective To evaluate the population characteristics, cardiovascular risk factors, and cardiotoxicity incidence within a newly established Cardio-Oncology service in our city, Argentina. Methods A retrospective observational study was conducted, analyzing the medical records of 300 patients referred to the Cardio-Oncology service between June 2018 and December 2024. Patient demographics, cancer types, cardiovascular comorbidities, referral reasons, and cardiotoxicity outcomes were assessed. Data analysis was performed using SPSS, with categorical variables expressed as numbers and percentages. Results The mean age of the cohort was 62 ± 13.36 years, with 63.7% female. The most common cancers were breast (36%), colorectal (11.3%), and hematologic malignancies (10%). Dyslipidemia (59.7%), hypertension (53.3%), and obesity (41%) were the most prevalent cardiovascular risk factors. Previous cardiovascular disease was reported in 10.3% of patients for acute coronary artery disease and 11% for arrhythmias. Risk stratification identified 39.3% of patients as high-risk, with 78% referred for primary prevention. Cardiotoxicity was observed in 36% of patients with left ventricular dysfunction (11.7%), vascular toxicity (9%), and arrhythmia (8%) as the most frequent complications. Of these, 45% events happened in high-risk patients and 23,8% in Low risk. The average time until the occurrence of these events was 16.9 ± 25.9 months (interval 1-120 months). Cardiotoxicity incidence varied across cancer types, being highest in kidney cancer (65%) and lowest in lung cancer (26.9%). No cardiotoxicity-related deaths were recorded. Conclusions This study underscores the critical role of Cardio-Oncology services in managing cardiovascular risks and complications in cancer patients. These findings highlight the importance of early cardiovascular assessment and tailored interventions to reduce long-term morbidity and mortality as cancer treatments continue to evolve.