Dr. Sherry-Ann Brown: Protecting Heart Health During Cancer Treatment
​
Dr. Sherry-Ann Brown is a renowned expert in the field of cardio-oncology, a rapidly growing specialty focused on managing heart health in cancer patients. As more people survive cancer, it has become increasingly important to address the cardiovascular risks associated with cancer treatments like chemotherapy and radiation. Dr. Brown has been at the forefront of this field, combining her expertise in both cardiology and oncology to help patients maintain their heart health while undergoing cancer treatment.
​
For cancer patients, one of the major concerns during treatment is cardiotoxicity. Both chemotherapy and radiation therapies are known to potentially cause damage to the heart, leading to long-term health problems. This can be particularly concerning, as the cardiovascular system is often vulnerable to the toxic effects of certain cancer treatments. Dr. Brown's approach to managing these risks is multifaceted, aiming not only to treat the cancer but to safeguard heart function as well.
​
The Importance of Early Screening and Monitoring
​
To ensure that cardiovascular issues are identified early, Dr. Brown emphasizes the importance of regular screenings, such as echocardiograms and stress tests, for cancer patients. These tests can help detect early signs of heart damage, allowing for prompt intervention. Some cancer treatments, particularly those involving anthracyclines and other chemotherapy agents, are known to affect the heart, and early detection can significantly improve the outcome for patients.
​
Echocardiograms, which use sound waves to produce images of the heart, help assess the heart’s function and detect any abnormalities, such as cardiac dysfunction. Stress tests, on the other hand, monitor the heart’s performance during physical exertion, revealing potential issues that may not be apparent at rest. These screenings are essential tools in Dr. Brown’s holistic approach to cancer treatment.
Lifestyle Changes: Empowering Patients to Protect Their Hearts
​
In addition to medical monitoring, Dr. Brown is a strong advocate for lifestyle changes to minimize the risk of heart problems. Cancer patients who are undergoing treatments such as chemotherapy or radiation often find themselves at higher risk for cardiovascular disease. To mitigate this, Dr. Brown encourages her patients to adopt a heart-healthy diet, emphasizing foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, whole grains, fruits, and vegetables, while reducing the intake of processed foods, sodium, and unhealthy fats.
​
Staying physically active is also a key recommendation. Regular exercise can help strengthen the heart, improve circulation, and reduce the risk of long-term cardiovascular complications. While cancer treatments may leave patients feeling fatigued or weak, Dr. Brown works with each patient to develop an individualized exercise plan, taking into account their physical condition and treatment regimen.
​
Quitting smoking and limiting alcohol are two other critical lifestyle changes that can dramatically improve heart health. Smoking is a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease and cancer, while excessive alcohol consumption can contribute to high blood pressure and heart damage. Dr. Brown’s patients are encouraged to take proactive steps to protect their heart by making these lifestyle adjustments.
Medications to Protect the Heart
​
In some cases, Dr. Brown prescribes medications to further safeguard heart function during cancer treatment. Beta-blockers, ACE inhibitors, and statins are commonly used in cardio-oncology to reduce the strain on the heart and prevent damage. Beta-blockers help control blood pressure and reduce heart rate, while ACE inhibitors relax blood vessels and improve blood flow. Statins, which lower cholesterol, can prevent plaque buildup in the arteries and reduce the risk of cardiovascular events.
These medications are particularly beneficial for cancer patients who may already have risk factors for heart disease, such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or a family history of cardiovascular problems. Dr. Brown works closely with each patient’s oncology team to ensure that any cardiovascular treatment is well-coordinated with their cancer care plan.
Collaborative Care: The Role of the Cardio-Oncologist
​
Dr. Sherry-Ann Brown is part of a growing number of specialists who focus on the intersection of cancer treatment and cardiovascular health. As part of a cardio-oncology program, she provides collaborative care, working alongside oncologists, cardiologists, and other healthcare providers to develop a comprehensive treatment plan for each patient. These multidisciplinary teams work together to ensure that patients receive the most effective cancer treatment while minimizing the risks to their heart health.
​
For patients who are at higher risk for cardiovascular complications, seeing a cardio-oncologist within a specialized program can be a game-changer. Dr. Brown’s approach involves tailored prevention strategies, including the use of medications, lifestyle modifications, and regular monitoring, to ensure long-term heart health. By providing long-term monitoring, cardio-oncologists like Dr. Brown can continue to track heart function and adjust treatment plans as needed to prevent any adverse effects.
Conclusion: Protecting Heart Health During Cancer Treatment
Dr. Sherry-Ann Brown’s work in cardio-oncology is helping to pave the way for better, more holistic care for cancer patients. By combining the expertise of cardiology and oncology, she ensures that heart health is not overlooked in the pursuit of cancer treatment. With early screenings, lifestyle changes, medications, and collaborative care, Dr. Brown is leading efforts to help cancer patients not only survive but thrive, with their heart health preserved for the long term.
​