Childhood cancer increases risk of heart disease

Children surviving cancer may find themselves battling heart disease in later life.

According to new medical research published today on the BMJ website, adults who have survived cancer during their childhood are at a higher risk of developing heart complications related to their cancer therapy.

Heart failure, heart attacks and heart valve abnormalities have been found to develop as late as 30 years after initial treatment.

Research author,  Professor Daniel Mulrooney  from the University of Minnesota said: “Young adults who survive childhood or adolescent cancer are clearly at risk for early cardiac morbidity and mortality not typically recognised within this age group. Such individuals require ongoing clinical monitoring, particularly as they approach ages in which cardiovascular disease becomes more prevalent.”

He is now calling on healthcare providers to be aware of the increased risks when caring for individuals who have survived childhood cancer.