Cardio-Oncology

Cardio-oncology is a specialized field focused on preventing, detecting, and treating heart disease in cancer patients and survivors. Many cancer therapies – while lifesaving – can sometimes affect the heart, creating unique cardiovascular risks during or after treatment.

Understanding Cardio-Oncology Services

At the WVU Heart and Vascular Institute, our cardio-oncology specialists use advanced diagnostics and the latest research to protect your heart during and after cancer care. We help patients manage both conditions with coordinated, compassionate care so cancer treatment can move forward safely without compromising heart health.

Comprehensive Cardio-Oncology Care for Cancer Patients

Some cancer patients may already have heart disease, while others may develop heart complications as a result of treatment. Our specialists work closely with your oncology team to monitor and protect your heart before, during, and after cancer therapy.

Our dedicated Cardio-Oncology Clinic provides personalized care plans designed to:

  • Reduce the risk of cardiovascular complications
  • Support long-term heart health during and after cancer treatment
  • Ensure your heart stays strong so you can focus on healing

Personalized, Proactive Care

Every treatment plan is tailored to your heart health, personal and family history, and cancer therapy. Our goal is to support – not interrupt – your cancer care, improving treatment outcomes while lowering future heart risks.

We monitor your heart throughout treatment using advanced diagnostic tools, including:

  • Strain echocardiography
  • Cardiac MRI
  • Nuclear PYP scanning
  • Specialized blood testing

Cardio-Oncology Services We Provide

  • Risk assessment and counseling for patients with existing or high-risk heart conditions prior to cancer treatment
  • Treatment of heart conditions with medications when needed
  • Management of heart complications from chemotherapy or chest radiation
  • Collaboration with oncology teams to choose heart-safe cancer therapies
  • Continuous monitoring before, during, and after therapy to detect early signs of heart stress
  • Post-treatment lifestyle guidance, including diet and exercise support for heart health

Long-Term Heart Care for Cancer Survivors

Protecting heart health doesn’t end when cancer treatment is complete. Our cardio-oncology team provides personalized survivorship care to reduce the risk of future cardiovascular disease.

Your long-term care plan may include:

  • Heart-healthy medications
  • Ongoing cardiac screenings
  • Nutrition and exercise guidance to strengthen recovery

This continuous support helps ensure your heart stays strong – so you can focus on living well beyond cancer.

Christopher Bianco, DO

Christopher Bianco, DO

Associate Professor, Cardiology
Non-Invasive Cardiology, Heart Failure, Cardio-Oncology, Heart Transplant
Morgantown, WV
J.W. Ruby Memorial Hospital (Main Campus)
Morgantown

J.W. Ruby Memorial Hospital (Main Campus)