Current challenges of cardiovascular comorbidity among cancer patients

Relevance. The increasing prevalence of non-communicable chronic diseases (NCDs), including cardiovascular and oncological pathologies, contributes to high global mortality (over 40% of cases) and reduced quality of life. Comorbidity of these conditions complicates diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis; however, its assessment is hindered by methodological heterogeneity across studies. The aim of the study is investigate current challenges in cardiovascular-oncological comorbidity, including prevalence, clinical significance, risk factors, and the development of strategies for diagnosis, treatment, and prevention. Materials and methods. A systematic analysis of international (Chinese Academy of Sciences, American Cancer Society) and domestic research data was conducted. Retrospective data from 35,861 oncology patients (China) and 15,626 cases (USA), as well as results from Russian studies (14,473 colorectal cancer patients), were utilized. Methods included comparative analysis of comorbidity criteria and evaluation of the impact of concomitant pathologies on diagnosis, treatment, and survival. Results. The prevalence of cardiovascular comorbidity ranged from 25.14% (hypertension — 21.9%, coronary artery disease — 6.5%) to 77.99%, depending on inclusion criteria. Key challenges identified: delayed cancer diagnosis due to symptom masking by chronic diseases (12–68.7% of cases); reduced access to radical treatment (30–60% lower in comorbid patients); worsened survival rates (e.g., 15–25% decline in breast cancer patients); low treatment adherence (30–60%) and polypharmacy, exacerbating treatment toxicity. Conclusions. Cardiovascular-oncological comorbidity necessitates an integrative approach: cardioprotection, cardiovascular parameter monitoring, personalized treatment, and polypharmacy minimization. Enhancing adherence through educational programs and rationalizing medication regimens may improve patient quality of life and prognosis.

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