Advanced CT Imaging Enhances Detection of Atherosclerosis in Lung Cancer Patients

Recent research suggests that comprehensive CT imaging may play a crucial role in identifying atherosclerosis in patients diagnosed with lung cancer. This study was presented at the American College of Cardiology's Advancing the Cardiovascular Care of the Oncology Patient course, highlighting the significant cardiovascular risks faced by this patient population.

Lung cancer patients typically experience several cardiovascular risk factors, such as older age and a history of smoking, which can elevate their chances of developing heart disease. Notably, heart disease and cancer are the leading causes of mortality in the United States. The dual threat posed by these conditions is exacerbated by shared risk factors, particularly smoking, which is prevalent in lung cancer patients and significantly increases their mortality risk when coupled with existing cardiovascular issues.

Moreover, treatments for lung cancer, including radiation therapy, may further increase the risk of heart-related complications. The study aimed to assess the presence of traditional cardiac risk factors within this vulnerable population and to evaluate the efficacy of CT imaging in identifying atherosclerosis at the time of cancer diagnosis. Understanding and addressing these cardiovascular risks can lead to earlier interventions and better health outcomes.

The study evaluated a cohort of 276 lung cancer patients at a specialized cancer treatment center, using CT scans to detect existing atherosclerosis. Atherosclerosis refers to the buildup of plaque in the arteries, which can impede blood flow and lead to severe cardiovascular problems. Researchers collected data on various factors, including blood pressure, body mass index (BMI), age, sex, race, smoking habits, and types of lung cancer.

Findings revealed that a substantial 77.9% of participants exhibited detectable atherosclerosis on their CT scans. Additionally, 47.8% of the patients had systolic blood pressure readings of 130 mmHg or higher, while 38% recorded diastolic blood pressure levels of 80 mmHg or above. Normal blood pressure is typically below 120/80 mmHg. The analysis also indicated that 27.2% of the participants were classified as obese, and a significant 88.8% were current or former smokers.

The study identified smoking as the most significant cardiovascular risk factor within this group, followed closely by advancing age, hypertension, and obesity. Although the study did not gather sufficient data to thoroughly evaluate the impacts of high cholesterol and diabetes, these factors are also critical in assessing cardiovascular disease risk.

Each participant underwent CT imaging as part of their lung cancer staging, which included chest scans capable of detecting coronary artery atherosclerosis through the identification of calcifications in blood vessels. The study advocates for the integration of coronary calcium scoring during lung cancer staging or screening procedures, which could facilitate earlier identification of atherosclerosis and prompt interventions such as lifestyle modifications, dietary adjustments, and education regarding cardiac risk factors.

This approach could not only enhance patient care but also reduce the need for additional testing, thereby lowering overall healthcare costs. Previous analyses have shown similar results in other patient groups, such as those with gynecological cancers, underscoring the high prevalence of cardiovascular disease risk factors among cancer patients, many of which are modifiable.