Obesity as a Common Denominator in Breast Cancer and Cardiovascular Disease

Obesity is widely regarded as a shared, modifiable risk factor of both breast cancer (BC) and cardiovascular disease (CVD). Human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2)-positive BC displays very aggressive behavior, and can be effectively treated with targeted therapies and chemotherapy regimens, though such treatments can induce cardiotoxicity. While the main research efforts are appropriately focused on the management of BC and heart failure (HF), obesity and its metabolic consequences, which are often linked with both these conditions, often remain unaddressed. This book combines a very practical approach, grounded in medical research, to these interconnected medical problems, in order to bridge the gap between current guidelines and clinical practice. It will serve to educate medical team members, such as oncologists, cardiologists, primary care physicians, and nurses, on cardioprotection, and moderate weight reduction. It highlights a need for the balanced integration of modern treatments of BC and HF, with healthy nutrition, regular physical activity, and helpful strategies to cope with chronic stress. In addition, the book represents a supportive resource for BC patients or survivors, who wish to be actively engaged in their long-term therapy journey.