Integrative Therapies and Cardiovascular Disease in the Breast Cancer Population: A Review, Part 1.

The cardiovascular toxicities of breast cancer treatment are important health problems, with potential public health consequences. Integrative therapies may represent important tools for prevention in this population. This article reviews the cardiotoxicity of conventional breast cancer therapy, including chemotherapy, radiation, and hormonal therapy. Data are presented on the benefits of substances such as curcumin, melatonin, Ginkgo biloba, resveratrol, coenzyme Q10, and l-carnitine. Although clinical studies on many of these substances are limited both in size and number, preclinical studies are available for several, and this article summarizes the potential mechanisms of action. Areas for future research are also identified.