Study reveals link between cancer drugs and heart conditions
With modern technologies, the field of medical science has also advanced. Doctors and scientists have discovered new treatment methods to cure several deadly diseases, including cancer. Modern medications are so effective that they have increased survival rates.
However, a study by University College London has discovered shocking side effects of medicines used for the treatment of cancer.
New study highlights the potential of cancer medications to trigger heart ailments
According to recent research, certain cancer therapies have the potential to detrimentally impact the heart, resulting in a condition referred to as cardiotoxicity. These cancer medications can impede the heart’s ability to pump effectively, occasionally leading to heart failure.
Published in the journal Science Advances, a study has unveiled the presence of specific proteins in the bloodstream that are correlated with an elevated likelihood of developing heart diseases influenced by the use of cancer treatment drugs.
Study discovers 33 blood proteins linked to various heart diseases, aiding drug development
In a significant breakthrough, researchers have successfully identified 33 specific proteins present in the blood that are associated with an increased susceptibility to multiple heart diseases. Among these conditions are different forms of heart failure and atrial fibrillation, an abnormal heart rhythm that heightens the risk of stroke.
Lead author Dr. Floriaan Schmidt from the UCL Institute of Cardiovascular Science emphasized the potential impact of the findings on future drug development. By providing scientists with valuable insights into these proteins, the study paves the way for the creation of new treatments for both cancer and heart diseases. This knowledge will enhance researchers’ confidence in the efficacy and safety of their drug designs, enabling them to target tumor reduction while minimizing harm to other areas of the body.
Commenting on the study, Professor Sir Nilesh Samani, Medical Director at the British Heart Foundation, acknowledged the advances made in cancer treatment but cautioned about the associated risk of heart damage resulting from these drugs.
