The Instituto Nacional de Enfermedades Neoplásicas (INEN) of the Ministry of Health announced on March 23 that more than 2,500 cancer patients receive monthly specialized monitoring to prevent and detect heart problems. This initiative is part of a comprehensive approach to cardiovascular care for vulnerable individuals undergoing cancer treatment.
The regular monitoring aims to protect the heart before, during, and after cancer therapies. Dr. Enrique Ruiz, head of the Cardiology Service at INEN, said cardiological monitoring is essential for safeguarding patient health throughout their treatment journey. “Detecting any alteration in the heart in time allows us to provide comprehensive and safe care so that patients can continue with their therapy and recovery stage without interruptions,” Ruiz said.
Of the monthly consultations provided by INEN’s Cardiology Service, about 1,200 are dedicated to evaluating cardiotoxicity risk—assessments designed to identify possible adverse effects of oncology treatments on cardiac function. Another 800 patients are evaluated for surgical risk prior to oncological procedures, while approximately 500 undergo echocardiography studies crucial for ongoing cardiac monitoring.
Ruiz explained that INEN established its Cardio-Oncology Unit seven years ago specifically to offer specialized follow-up for oncology patients. The unit applies standardized protocols and uses advanced diagnostic tools such as electrocardiograms, echocardiograms, and strain measurement—a technique capable of detecting early changes in cardiac muscle even before symptoms arise.
Additional services within INEN’s Cardiology Department include clinical evaluation areas, preoperative studies, Holter monitoring (24-hour electrocardiogram), ambulatory blood pressure monitoring (MAPA), and an advanced cardiovascular imaging unit equipped with cardiac MRI scans, angiotomography, and nuclear medicine studies.
