Protecting hearts through cancer care: A conversation with Christopher M. Bianco, D.O.

At the heart of every cancer diagnosis, you’ll find more than a patient — there's an individual with a family, a story, and a heart that deserves protection. At WVU Medicine, our cardio-oncology team, led by Christopher M. Bianco, D.O., specializes in advanced heart failure treatment and cardiac transplantation. This expert team works alongside WVU Cancer Institute specialists to ensure treatments don’t come at the expense of heart health.

Dr. Bianco recently discussed the vital connection between cancer therapies and cardiovascular care and how his team gives patients strength and hope throughout every stage of treatment. 

How can cancer treatments, like chemotherapy or radiation, affect heart health? 

Modern cancer therapies have revolutionized care, but some are associated with cardiovascular side effects — especially for patients with preexisting cardiovascular disease. The risk varies depending on the type of drug or radiation, the dose, and individual patient risk factors. 

What steps can patients and their families take before starting treatment to protect the heart? 

“Identifying patients at elevated risk for therapy-induced cardiovascular dysfunction is paramount,” Bianco said. He emphasized using risk mitigation efforts and cardiovascular surveillance strategies before treatment begins to reduce the chances of long-term damage. 

During treatment, what signs should patients and caregivers watch for? 

Watch out for symptoms such as:

• Chest discomfort
• Breathlessness
• Palpitations
• Near or actual fainting spells 

Also, signs like swelling in the legs or abdomen can indicate fluid buildup or worsening heart function that needs to be evaluated. 

Are there lifestyle changes or medications that can help reduce heart risk? 

Yes. Some of the key interventions Bianco recommends include:

• Eating a heart-healthy diet
• Regular physical activity (as tolerated)
• Tight control of blood pressure, blood sugar, and cholesterol
• Careful selection and monitoring of cancer therapies in high-risk individuals
• Use of protective cardiovascular medications in certain circumstances, given alongside cancer therapy when appropriate 

How do you coordinate care between oncology and cardiology, especially for patients living in more rural areas of West Virginia? 

“At WVU, our cardio-oncology clinic collaborates closely with oncology,” Dr. Bianco explained. “Our care extends throughout our system and into remote areas via shared-care models, remote visits, and televisits, so patients - regardless of location - have access to specialized cardio-oncology support.” 

After treatment ends, what ongoing heart monitoring or follow-up should patients and their loved ones expect? 

Survivorship includes not just cancer remembrance, but heart care:

• All patients who had cardiovascular disease, or even those without but who had high risk exposure through their therapies, should be offered cardiovascular-cancer survivorship visits.
• These visits focus on standard cardiovascular risk factors (blood pressure, lipids, sugars, lifestyle).
• In many cases, long-term surveillance may include serial cardiac imaging to catch heart changes early. 

At WVU Medicine, we believe that caring for people with cancer also means protecting their hearts. Through cardio-oncology, Dr. Bianco and his team provide care that helps patients not only live longer, but live stronger. 

💙 In Medicine, we protect hearts while treating cancer.