The connection between the breast and heart in a woman: Breast cancer and cardiovascular disease

Cardiovascular disease remains the leading cause of death in women in the United States and is a major public health issue for all women, but it is of increasing concern to breast cancer survivors. Advancements in early detection and breast cancer therapy have resulted in over 90% of women surviving 5 years past their diagnosis of breast cancer. Nonetheless, with increased survivorship from breast cancer, there has been an increase in cardiovascular disease in these women. The consequences of the treatments for breast cancer may increase the risk for cardiovascular disease. Additionally, there is an overlap of risk factors common to both breast cancer and cardiovascular disease. The increased risk of cardiovascular disease in women who survive breast cancer must be recognized, with a focus on the prevention and early detection of cardiovascular disease.