Cardio-oncology
Our specialists in both cancer and cardiology work together to help prevent, diagnose, and treat heart conditions caused by cancer therapies, helping patients feel their best during and after recovery.
The role of cardio-oncology during cancer care
Cardio-oncology focuses on helping people with heart problems caused by cancer and cancer treatments like chemotherapy or radiation. Cardiac specialists work with cancer doctors to manage side effects that affect the heart during and after treatment, ensuring both cancer and heart health receive the attention they need. The goal is to reduce heart risks so patients can receive the necessary cancer treatments, allowing them to live longer, fuller lives.
Advanced heart care for cancer patients
Penn Medicine cardio-oncology offers specialized cardiac care for cancer patients and survivors. Our program is one of the few in the nation that brings together specialists in both cardiology and oncology to treat and protect your heart at every stage of cancer treatment and beyond.
We provide specialized care for:
- Cancer patients before or during treatment that may harm the heart
- Cancer patients at risk for heart disease or who have heart disease
- Cancer survivors who experience heart complications from cancer treatment
Clinical trials
Clinical trials offer patients the opportunity to try new and effective treatments and take part in future research.
Second opinions
If you've received a diagnosis, our team of experts offers second opinions to grant you peace of mind.
Bridging the cancer-heart health care gap
Through Penn Medicine’s Cancer System, our dedicated specialists are focused on delivering innovative and compassionate cancer care. Since 2018, our cardiologists have collaborated with these experts to create new opportunities for those recovering from cancer treatments. Together, they address and treat heart issues that may arise due to cancer therapies, ensuring patients feel their best before, during, and after treatment.
Cancer-related heart conditions we treat
Protecting your heart: cardio-oncology care at Penn Medicine
Because cardio-oncology is an emerging field, doctors are still studying the most effective ways to handle cancer-related heart complications. Our cardio-oncologists are at the forefront of this process. We’ve created effective strategies, policies, and protocols to deliver a consistently high level of evidence-based care.
When you partner with us, you can expect:
- Prompt diagnosis: Early detection makes treatments more effective. Our top-of-the-line echocardiography machines are equipped with strain imaging technology, which produces higher-quality 3D images that help us detect chemotherapy-related heart problems sooner.
- Quick access to care: In cancer treatment, timing is crucial. We collaborate closely with your oncologist to ensure you receive efficient care. When it’s time to make treatment decisions, we provide flexible scheduling and same-day appointments so you can be seen quickly.
- Comprehensive heart care: We provide care for all types of heart issues, from routine to complex. Our specialty heart clinics bring together internationally recognized doctors and nurse practitioners, each with unique expertise in specific cardiovascular conditions and treatments, ensuring you get the best care possible.
Thalheimer Center for Cardio-oncology
In 2021, Penn Medicine received a gift from local philanthropist Joan Thalheimer to establish The Thalheimer Center for Cardio-Oncology. This gift and our resulting center position our program as a global leader in preventing, detecting, and treating the effects of cancer therapy on the heart.
Rated “exceptional” by The National Cancer Institute
Penn Medicine’s Abramson Cancer Center is a world leader in cancer research, patient care, and education. Our status as a national leader in cancer care is reflected in our continuous designation as a Comprehensive Cancer Center by the National Cancer Institute (NCI) since 1973, one of 7 such centers in the United States. The ACC is also a member of the National Comprehensive Cancer Network, one of a select few cancer centers in the U.S., that are working to promote equitable access to high-quality, advanced cancer care.
Our doctors
Our providers work with you to plan and deliver exceptional treatment and personalized care.
Locations
Our hospitals, multispecialty medical centers, pharmacies, labs and more offer outstanding, personalized care for patients all across the region.