I'm proud to be on #TeamAngel and work with our team to make positive change on the state of women's health. As an oncology pharmacist, I work with providers to optimize chemotherapy regimens including those with cardiotoxic side effects.
Oncology cardiotoxicity—heart damage caused by certain cancer treatments—has become an increasingly important issue as more people survive cancer and live long enough to experience treatment‑related cardiovascular effects. Women, in particular, face unique risks: they are more likely to develop certain cancers such as breast cancer, more frequently receive cardiotoxic therapies like anthracyclines and HER2‑targeted agents, and often experience delayed recognition of heart disease symptoms. This intersection places women at a disproportionate risk for both cancer and cardiovascular complications.
The Go Red for Women campaign, led by the American Heart Association, aims to close the gender gap in cardiovascular awareness, research, and prevention. Its goals—empowering women with knowledge, promoting early detection, advocating for equitable care, and driving research focused on women’s heart health—align directly with the needs of patients facing oncology‑related cardiotoxicity. By raising awareness of heart disease as the leading cause of death in women, the campaign also highlights the importance of monitoring cardiovascular health throughout the cancer journey.
Integrating the principles of Go Red for Women into oncology care encourages a more holistic, patient‑centered approach. It supports educating women about cardiotoxicity risks, promoting heart‑healthy behaviors during and after cancer treatment, and ensuring collaboration between oncologists and cardiologists. Ultimately, this synergy strengthens the message that protecting women’s hearts is essential—not only in preventing traditional cardiovascular disease but also in safeguarding long‑term health for cancer survivors.
It's not just about wearing red. It's not just about sharing heart health facts. It's about all women connecting and committing to stand together against our greatest health threat.
The time is now. Are you with me? To support my campaign, click the Donate button.
Thank you.