Cardiologist referrals lower cholesterol in prostate cancer patients but do not reduce heart events
Source Summary
A large international study led by Hamilton researchers examined routine cardiologist referrals for men with prostate cancer, who face elevated heart disease risk especially during hormone therapy. The study found that referrals improved cholesterol levels but did not reduce the incidence of heart attacks, strokes, heart failure, or cardiovascular deaths.
Why it matters
The findings suggest that routine cardiologist referrals may not be necessary for all prostate cancer patients despite improved cholesterol levels, potentially affecting clinical practice guidelines for cardiovascular screening in this population.
