Kidney cancer survivors who were diagnosed at a young age face a considerably higher risk of experiencing heart-related complications. This increased risk can be primarily attributed to elevated levels of hypertension, or high blood pressure, according to a recent study.
The Impact on Adolescents and Young Adults
Cardiovascular disease stands as a leading cause of health complications and mortality among adolescents and young adults, specifically those aged between 15 and 39, who have been diagnosed with cancer. The study, which was published in the Journal of the National Comprehensive Cancer Network, discovered that two medications commonly used in the treatment of kidney cancer can elevate the risk of developing high blood pressure.
Medications and High Blood Pressure
The researchers observed that individuals who took sunitinib and sorafenib, two drugs designed to impede the growth of blood vessels that support tumor development, were prone to developing hypertension. The frequent use of these medications caused a surge in blood pressure levels.
Lead author Wendy Bottinor, a cardio-oncologist at Virginia Commonwealth University, emphasized the significance of these findings: “The large number of adolescents and young adults who experienced high blood pressure during treatment with sunitinib or sorafenib suggests that even individuals without identifiable pre-existing factors — such as older age, obesity, and male gender — are also at significant risk for hypertension due to these drugs.”
Risks Extending Beyond Kidney Cancer
Furthermore, the study revealed that young survivors of thyroid and colorectal tumors are also susceptible to a type of heart failure known as left ventricular systolic dysfunction. Hypertension places excessive strain on the heart and blood vessels, leading to tissue damage in the arteries and increasing the likelihood of irregular heartbeat, heart attacks, or strokes.
Balancing Effectiveness and Cardiovascular Health
Sunitinib and sorafenib, which effectively impede the growth of blood vessels that support tumor development, are frequently employed as therapeutic options for both adult and pediatric cancer patients. However, their use can be limited due to cardiovascular toxicities, with hypertension and left ventricular dysfunction being among the most prevalent complications, as noted by Bottinor.
The Importance of Researching Cardiovascular Health
Adolescents and young adults are a group that is often underrepresented in cancer research, despite the significant cardiovascular burden they face. Bottinor stressed the importance of understanding the intricate relationship between cancer diagnosis, treatment, and heart disease in order to promote cardiovascular well-being throughout the lives of young cancer survivors.
In conclusion, this study highlights the heightened risk of heart problems faced by younger kidney cancer survivors. The use of certain medications in their treatment increases the likelihood of hypertension and other cardiovascular complications. By acknowledging and addressing these risks, healthcare professionals can take proactive measures to safeguard the long-term cardiovascular health of adolescent and young adult cancer survivors.