Why Is The Duke Comprehensive Cancer Center Interested in Studies Involving Exercise and Heart Health?
H. Kim Lyerly, MD Director, Duke Comprehensive Cancer Center A major advantage that the Duke Comprehensive Cancer Center has over many other cancer centers is that we have researchers from a wide variety of departments collaborating with each other. While cardiology and oncology appear at first glance to be unrelated, it has become increasingly more evident that the two are intertwined. Studies have found that drugs that help cancer patients fight their disease can also increase the risk of heart problems later. We need to understand why this happens. More importantly, we need to understand how we can protect our cancer patients from developing heart problems. Duke is fortunate to have outstanding faculty members who are experts in oncology and in cardiology. We have consistently ranked among the top 10 in both specialties by U.S.News & World Report. The connection between cancer and the heart is an important area of study, and at Duke we are well-equipped to continue to make important
