Colorectal cancer patients face heightened cardiovascular death risk

A recent study has found that patients with colorectal cancer have a higher risk of dying from heart-related issues compared to the general population. This risk is especially significant during the first two years after diagnosis and among individuals under 50 years old. The findings were shared at the American College of Cardiology's Annual Scientific Session. Colorectal cancer rates are increasing in the U.S., making this study important. Researchers examined more than 630,000 adults diagnosed with colorectal cancer between 2000 and 2021 using data from the National Cancer Institute. They found that patients with this cancer were 16% more likely to die from cardiovascular problems than those without it. The risk rose to 45% in the first two years after diagnosis. Younger patients, particularly those under 50, were found to be 2.4 times more likely to face cardiovascular death. Additionally, Black patients had a 74% increased risk, while males experienced a 55% increased risk. The study suggested that factors such as income, location, and access to healthcare may contribute to these disparities. Researchers are still investigating why this link exists. The increased risk may be related to cancer treatments, the cancer itself, or other factors. Doctors emphasize the importance of monitoring heart health in these patients, especially in the early stages of treatment. The research team plans to conduct further studies to better understand cardiovascular risks associated with different cancer therapies. They also aim to explore how socioeconomic factors affect patient outcomes in colorectal cancer.