People who have undergone cancer treatment can significantly increase their chances of longevity by adopting a heart-healthy lifestyle, a recent study shows. Researchers claim that following seven essential principles of cardiovascular health can greatly reduce the risk of premature mortality among cancer survivors.
The study points out that cardiovascular disease and cancer “share modifiable risk factors and possible common molecular mechanisms.” The authors draw attention to the importance of integrating cardiovascular prevention into the care of cancer patients, thus strengthening the emerging field of cardio-oncology – a medical branch that analyzes the link between heart disease and cancer.
Why heart health is so important after cancer
Table of Contents
Independent experts involved in analyzing the results confirm that the heart-healthy habits recommended for the general population are even more important for people who have had cancer. Some cancer treatments can increase the risk of cardiovascular disease, making prevention essential in the long term.
“Although the study is observational and cannot demonstrate a direct causal relationship, it clearly supports the need to focus on cardiovascular health during cancer survivorship,” say the specialists.
The Seven Pillars of Cardiovascular Health
For this research, the scientists analyzed the medical data of 779 adults in Italy, all diagnosed with cancer and monitored for an average period of about 15 years. The rating was based on the American Heart Association’s Life’s Simple 7 guideline, which includes seven key factors:
-
Eating
-
physical activity
-
smoking
-
body weight
-
blood pressure
-
cholesterol
-
blood sugar
Participants received points for each category in which they maintained healthy values. The results showed that people with an ideal cardiovascular health score had a 38% lower risk of mortality compared to those with poor cardiovascular health. Furthermore, each additional point was associated with a 10% reduction in the risk of death from cancer.
The link between the heart and cancer
The researchers also identified three biological factors common to cancer and cardiovascular disease: low-grade inflammation, heart rate, and blood vitamin D levels. These findings support the idea that protecting the heart may also have direct benefits on oncological progression.
The role of diet and daily habits
The study showed that the results were even better when the diet was close to the Mediterranean model, rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean proteins, with a low consumption of processed foods.
However, specialists emphasize that it is not only diet that matters, but the whole set of healthy habits. Regular physical activity, maintaining an optimal weight, blood pressure and blood sugar control, quality sleep and avoiding smoking or excessive alcohol consumption are equally important.
How cancer survivors can adopt a healthy lifestyle
Experts recommend small but sustainable changes. The ideal diet is one that can be maintained long-term, tailored to each person’s energy levels, symptoms and preferences. Cutting back on added sugar, saturated fat and ultra-processed foods as well as portion control are simple but effective steps.
“Healthy habits are mutually reinforcing. A small change can create a positive domino effect on your entire lifestyle,” the doctors point out.
Conclusion
For people who have beaten cancer, taking care of your heart is not just a general recommendation, but an essential strategy for a longer, healthier life. The seven principles of cardiovascular health can become a powerful ally during survival, proving that the same habits that protect the heart can also help reduce the risk of cancer.
Source: healthline.com
Sursa foto: Shutterstock
