A cardio-oncology experience in Italy: results of a Tuscany regional-based survey

Aims Anti-cancer agents with cardiovascular side effects multiply, often interfering with effective oncology treatments, and thus the relationship between cardiologists and oncologists should be closer. We carried out a regional-based survey on behalf of Associazione Nazionale Medici Cardiologi Ospedalieri to analyse the status of cardio-oncology in Tuscany. Methods A short questionnaire was sent out to all cardiology divisions across Tuscany (n = 36). The questionnaire was made up of 13 questions divided into four blocks: cardio-oncology census and inner organization; multidisciplinary team and specific training; oncology-related workload; need for and availability of cardiac MRI. Results Twenty-five centres out of 36 sent back the completed questionnaire and so were included in the survey. An inadequacy of cardio-oncology services surfaced, with only 20% of institutions offering a cardio-oncology service and 28% possessing a trained cardiology team. The majority of cardiologists regarded as useful a specific training (72%), and the foundation of a distinct service (55%), and 68% assumed cooperation with oncologists as a way to improve performance. The majority of the workload involves ECGs and echocardiograms with a mean monthly number of requests ranging between 10 and 40. Cardiac MRI and computed tomography scans are used in selected cases, but all cardiologists consider them useful. Conclusion To date, cardio-oncology in Tuscany can be considered as an unmet need. We should improve dedicated services by means of specific training and multidisciplinary teams. The definition of a regional task force and appointed centres with known expertise could also help. To make this upgrade possible, a financial effort is vital.