Role of Arterial Hypertension and Hypertension-Mediated Organ Damage in Cardiotoxicity of Anticancer Therapies

PURPOSE OF THE REVIEW: Arterial hypertension (AH) is the most common cardiovascular (CV) risk factor in the community and in oncologic patients. It also represents the most important CV condition predisposing to anticancer treatment-related cardiotoxicity. This risk is heightened in the presence of cardiac AH-mediated organ damage (HMOD). Influence of AH and HMOD on the development of cardiotoxicity will be reviewed, with a focus on specific scenarios and implications for management of oncologic patients. RECENT FINDINGS: Not adequately controlled AH before or during anticancer treatments and/or development of AH during or after completion of such therapies have detrimental effects on the clinical course of oncologic patients, particularly if HMOD is present. SUMMARY: As overlooking CV health can jeopardize the success of anticancer treatments, the goal for clinicians caring for the oncologic patient should include the treatment of AH and HMOD.