A South Korean study highlights that weight gain after a breast cancer diagnosis increases the risk of heart failure, emphasizing the need for weight management in post-cancer care.
Study Findings and Risk Assessment
A comprehensive nationwide study involving 43,717 women in South Korea (mean age 53.7) has revealed significant correlations between post-diagnosis weight changes and cardiovascular outcomes [1]. The research, published in JAMA Oncology on February 10, 2025, found that patients who gained 5-10% of their body weight faced a 159% increased risk of heart failure, while those gaining more than 10% experienced an even higher 185% increased risk [1].
Weight Distribution Patterns
The study tracked weight changes over a mean follow-up period of 4.67 years, revealing that while the majority (63.9%) maintained their weight, approximately 14.2% of patients experienced significant weight gains [1]. Initial measurements showed a mean pre-diagnosis BMI of 23.5 kg/m², which slightly decreased to 23.3 kg/m² post-diagnosis [1]. This pattern suggests that while weight maintenance is achievable for most patients, a significant minority faces challenges with weight management during recovery.
Implications for Patient Care
These findings come at a crucial time when breast cancer treatment outcomes are improving globally, shifting focus toward long-term survivorship care [2]. Recent research published in Clinical Breast Cancer has highlighted the broader metabolic risks faced by breast cancer survivors, including those who are non-obese [2]. This emphasizes the need for comprehensive weight management strategies as an integral part of post-cancer care protocols [1][2].
Future Directions and Monitoring
The medical community is responding to these findings with increased attention to weight management in oncological care. Current research published in Scientific Reports indicates a growing focus on the relationship between weight changes and cardiac outcomes in breast cancer survivors [3]. Healthcare providers are now advised to implement regular weight monitoring and management strategies, particularly during the critical first few years post-diagnosis [1][3].