Pediatric cardio-oncology

Advancements in cancer care have greatly improved survival rates over the past few decades. However, lifesaving treatments like chemotherapy and radiation can cause heart problems during treatment or years later.

Our pediatric cardio-oncology team specializes in caring for the hearts of young cancer patients. With a focus on early prevention and detection, we work to minimize and prevent heart issues related to cancer treatments.

What is pediatric cardio-oncology?

Pediatric cardio-oncology combines pediatric cardiology and oncology to prevent and treat heart problems in children who have undergone cancer treatment.

Chemotherapy and radiation are still the best and most effective treatment options for fighting many types of cancer. But they can also cause damage to the body’s blood vessels and the heart.

Pediatric cancer survivors are at higher risk of developing conditions that are linked to heart disease, including:

• High blood pressure
• High cholesterol
• Blood clots
• Coronary artery disease (CAD) and heart attack
• Heart rhythm conditions
• Structural heart disease, such as heart valve disorders
• Heart failure

Preventing heart problems requires regular monitoring by a cardiologist who understands the risks based on their medical history.

Our pediatric cardio-oncology program at Advocate Children’s Hospital

Our goal is to help support a long and heart healthy life after cancer treatment and into adulthood. With the first dedicated comprehensive program in the Chicagoland area, we provide care for patients who:

• Were recently diagnosed with childhood cancer and have not yet started treatment
• Are currently undergoing chemotherapy and/or radiation
• Have completed cancer treatment and need screening of the heart and blood vessels

Patients in our program have access to the best heart care, including:

• Team of dedicated experts: Our pediatric cardio-oncology program brings together cardiologists, oncologists and the Pediatric Oncology Survivors in Transition (P.O.S.T.) team to provide the best, most comprehensive care for your child.
• Early screening tool: Our pediatric cardio-oncology team developed a screening tool to identify who is at risk for the development of cardiac problems during and after cancer treatment.
• Advanced diagnostic tests: We’re equipped with the latest technology and diagnostic tests to detect heart risks and conditions in children who have received or are receiving cancer treatment.
• Close heart monitoring: We offer regular visits during cancer treatment, including physical exams and testing, if necessary. During these visits we work closely with your oncology team to develop an individualized plan of care as we look for any signs of new or worsening cardiac side effects.
• Tailored long-term plan: Once your child’s cancer treatment is complete, our collaborative team of pediatric specialists will plan the next steps towards heart health with you and your child. Some children may need more frequent monitoring right after cancer treatment ends, while others need monitoring long term and into adulthood as there are many late effects of cancer therapy specific to the heart.