Potential pathophysiologic mechanisms underlying the inherent risk of cancer in patients with atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease

Int J Cardiol. 2022 Sep 15:363:190-195. doi: 10.1016/j.ijcard.2022.06.048. Epub 2022 Jun 18.

Abstract

Emerging evidence demonstrates an intimate interplay between cardiovascular disease and cancer pathophysiology. The aim of this review is to shed light on the common biological pathways underlying cardiovascular disease and cancer. These common pathways form the basis of "reverse cardio-oncology". We focus on the role of inflammation, stress response, cell proliferation, angiogenesis and tissue remodeling, neurohormonal system activation, and genomic instability as pathogenic pathways shared by cardiovascular disease and cancer. We also discuss shared mediators that may have a potential role as biomarkers for risk prediction in both diseases. Furthermore, we highlight current knowledge on biological pathways and mediators that are upregulated in diabetes and myocardial infarction and may be involved in tumorigenesis. On the basis of the shared pathophysiologic mechanisms, we also suggest an integrated approach to reduce the global burden of both cardiovascular disease and cancer.

Keywords: Atherosclerosis; Biomarker; Cancer; Cardio-Oncology; Cardiovascular disease; Inflammation; Pathophysiology.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Atherosclerosis* / diagnosis
  • Atherosclerosis* / epidemiology
  • Atherosclerosis* / genetics
  • Cardiovascular Diseases* / diagnosis
  • Cardiovascular Diseases* / epidemiology
  • Humans
  • Inflammation / pathology
  • Myocardial Infarction*
  • Neoplasms* / epidemiology