Targeting and Effectiveness of Radiation Therapy

Despite advances in the targeting and effectiveness of radiation therapy, side effects can develop over the years.

—Have you had radiation treatment to the brain or head and neck? If so, your risk of having a future stroke may be as high as 40%.

—Have you had radiation treatment to the lung or breast? If so, your risk of developing or worsening of heart disease may be higher than expected.

—Have you undergone radiation treatment to the pelvis? If so, your risk of peripheral artery disease may be increased.

These are just some of the long term risks associated with radiation treatment, which, in addition to cancer surveillance, is why it’s important to continue to follow up with your radiation oncologist to be evaluated for your potential risks.

New expert consensus recommendations include:

—If your neck was previously radiated, a referral to get a carotid ultrasound (1 year after treatment and every 5-years)

—If your chest was radiated, a referral for a heart ultrasound may be recommended (6-12 months after treatment and every 5-years)

Reference: Cardiovascular Manifestations From Therapeutic Radiation: A Multidisciplinary Expert Consensus Statement From the International Cardio-Oncology Society. State-Of-The-Art Review

https://www.jacc.org/doi/10.1016/j.jaccao.2021.06.003