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Cardio-Oncology & Immunology Program

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(415) 353-3110

Advances in cancer treatment have dramatically improved the long-term survival of cancer patients. Unfortunately, many of the drugs and therapies that destroy cancer cells can damage a person's heart, directly or by creating immunological or metabolic problems that affect cardiovascular health. The UCSF Cardio-Oncology & Immunology Program was created to address those problems.

Our goal is to minimize heart-health risks for patients during and after their cancer treatment. Because of the complex nature of these issues, we have a diverse team of specialists working closely together to care for our patients. We also collaborate with doctors and researchers at UCSF Bakar Cancer Hospital, as well as the UCSF Cardiovascular Research Institute and other medical centers worldwide.

With expertise and care, we're equipped to help a range of patients, including:

  • Those with heart-related side effects from cancer treatments. These treatments could include anthracyclines and radiation therapy.
  • Newly diagnosed cancer patients who already have cardiovascular issues. Our cardio-oncologists work closely with the primary cancer team to safely guide each patient through their cancer treatments.
  • People with inflammatory heart conditions. These are patients treated with an immuno-oncology therapy who develop an inflammatory heart disease, such as myocarditis (inflammation of the heart muscle).
  • Patients with metabolic issues or disorders. Cancer therapies that target tumor metabolism can upset bodily metabolism. This, by extension, can affect the cardiovascular system. Our expert team focuses on reducing the impact of these metabolic changes on the cardiovascular system.
  • Cancer survivors. Because many cancer treatments can be harmful to the heart, patients are often left with a higher risk of heart disease. We work with survivors to teach them about their cardiovascular risks and strategies to reduce them.

We also offer a number of clinics focused on treating specific conditions, including:

  • Amyloidosis
  • Carcinoid heart disease
  • Myocarditis
  • Clonal hematopoiesis of indeterminate potential (CHIP)

Our locations

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    Cancer Therapies and Your Heart:

    Some cancer treatments can cause heart problems. Watch experts discuss the early warning signs and how careful monitoring can protect your long-term heart health.

    Awards & recognition

    • U S  News and World Report badge recognizing UCSF as part of its 2024-2025 Honor Roll

      Among the top hospitals in the nation

    • Best in Northern California and No. 7 in the nation for cancer care

    • One of the nation's best for heart & vascular surgery

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    Preparing for your appointment

    What to Bring

    • Photo I.D.
    • Health insurance card
    • Insurance authorization, if required
    • Doctor's referral, if required
    • Recent test results related to your condition
    • List of your medications, including dosages, plus any you're allergic to
    • List of questions you may have
    • Device or paper for taking notes

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    Related clinics

    Cancer Immunotherapy Toxicity Evaluation (CITE) Program

    Bakar Precision Cancer Medicine Building

    1825 Fourth St.
    San Francisco, CA 94158

    Cancer Survivorship and Wellness Institute

    Bakar Precision Cancer Medicine Building

    See both of our San Francisco locations.

    Myocarditis Center

    See both of our Bay Area locations and learn more about the program.

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