Cardiovascular Screening in Cancer Patients Treated with Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors

Immunotherapy is an effective cancer treatment that stimulates the immune system to combat cancer. However, immunotherapy can increase the risk of developing future heart disease. This thesis assessed risk factors for heart disease in patients treated with immunotherapy for cancer and summarized strategies to screen for high blood pressure, high cholesterol and diabetes in these patients. A unique study was also designed and conducted across multiple hospitals in Australia to systematically screen patients treated with immunotherapy for these risk factors. This would guide the commencement of therapies that could prevent heart disease in this at-risk patient group.