Cardio-Oncology in Singapore:
Protecting Your Heart from Chemotherapy-Related Heart Failure​​

What Is Cardio-Oncology and How It Protects Against Chemotherapy-Related Heart Failure

 

Cancer treatments save countless lives, but they can also place stress on the heart. Cardio-Oncology is a specialised branch of cardiology that focuses on protecting the heart during and after cancer treatment.

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As more people survive cancer and live longer after therapy, doctors are seeing a growing number of heart-related issues appearing years later. The combination of longer survival time and the effects of chemotherapy, targeted therapies, and radiation means that cancer survivors today are more likely to develop heart complications such as heart failure, arrhythmia, or coronary artery disease.

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As a female cardiologist in Singapore, Dr Chan Po Fun works closely with patients (both men and women) who are receiving or have completed cancer treatment, to keep their hearts safe and strong. She provides pre-treatment cardiac assessment, ongoing monitoring, and post-treatment follow-up to detect early changes and prevent long-term damage.

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Why Heart Care Matters During Chemotherapy and Radiation

 

Some treatments can put extra stress on the heart:

• Chemotherapy (like Anthrocyclines - Doxorubicin) may weaken the heart muscle

• Targeted therapy (like Herceptin) can affect heart pumping function

• Radiation to the chest may cause long-term changes to the heart and blood vessels

• Hormonal therapy can increase cholesterol or blood pressure
   

Early Warning Signs of Chemotherapy-Related Heart Problems

 

Heart problems can show up during cancer treatment, or even years later.

It’s important to stay alert to any changes in how you feel. Watch for:

• Feeling unusually tired or weak

• Shortness of breath

• Swollen ankles or feet

• Chest discomfort or a fast heartbeat

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In Singapore, seeing a cardiologist experienced in chemotherapy-related heart failure ensures that any subtle cardiac changes are detected early and managed effectively.

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Why Early Heart Screening During Cancer Care Is Crucial

 

If these symptoms appear, do not ignore them. Getting checked early means your doctor can pick up subtle heart changes before they become serious. That early detection not only protects your heart; It also means you are more likely to continue your life-saving cancer treatment safely and without interruption.

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Many heart issues can be treated or even reversed when they are caught in time. Regular follow-up with a cardiologist experienced in Cardio-Oncology, like Dr Chan Po Fun, helps ensure that your heart stays strong while you focus on healing.

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How Dr Chan Po Fun Supports Cancer Patients with Chemo-Related Heart Failure

 

Dr Chan Po Fun provides comprehensive heart care for people receiving cancer treatment and for long-term survivors. Her goal is to keep your heart strong so you can focus fully on recovery.

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She offers:

• Heart check before treatment – to establish a safe baseline before chemotherapy, targeted therapy, or radiotherapy.

• Monitoring during treatment – through regular heart scans and blood tests to detect early signs of stress on the heart.

• Treatment if problems arise – using medications and tailored care plans to support heart function and help you continue life-saving cancer therapy safely.

• Long-term follow-up – because heart risks can develop even years after treatment; early follow-up helps prevent long-term complications.

• Cholesterol and lifestyle management – to lower the future risk of heart disease and improve overall health.

• Public education and awareness – Dr Chan also works with the Breast Cancer Foundation and the Singapore Cancer Society to help cancer patients and survivors recognise early warning signs and seek timely care.

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