A Patient-Centered Partnership

Kettering Health’s Cardio-Oncology Program partners cardiologists, oncologists, and oncology surgeons. Started in 2015, it is still the only program of its kind in the Dayton area.

About the Program

Kettering Health created the Cardio-Oncology Program to account for the possible ways cancer treatment can harm the cardiovascular system.

Support at Every Stage

Patients may be referred to the Cardio-Oncology Program at any stage of cancer care. You may see a program specialist

• Before treatment: Oncologists consult with cardiologists to determine the best type of treatment for patients with existing heart disease.
• During treatment: Cardiologists meet with oncology patients regularly to test and check cardiac function.
• After treatment: Cardiologists continue to care for patients even after treatment.
• Years after treatment: Cardiologists care for former cancer patients who experience symptoms long after treatment.

Effects of Cancer Treatment

“Cardiotoxicity” refers to the adverse effects of radiation, chemotherapy, immune therapies, and other treatments on the heart and vascular system. Therapies and medications can cause a range of conditions, such as the following:

• Blood clots
• Cardiomyopathy (diseases of the heart muscle)
• Coronary artery disease
• Heart valve disease
• High blood pressure
• Irregular heart rhythms (arrhythmia)
• Myocarditis (inflammation of the heart muscle)
• Pericarditis (inflammation of the heart lining)

An Evolving Program

Kettering Health continues to grow its Cardio-Oncology Program based on new research and data. We’re learning everything we can about cancer care and the heart to help you enjoy your best health.