Can Cancer Affect the Heart? A Cardiologist from Rajkot Explains
Many people in Rajkot and across Gujarat know that cancer can affect the lungs, liver, or breast — but very few think about the heart. Dr. Nikhila Pachani, DM Cardiology and Consultant Interventional Cardiologist at Backbone Medicity Hospital, Rajkot, recently answered a question that surprises many patients: Can cancer actually affect the heart?
The short answer is yes — but it is extremely rare.
Primary Heart Cancer: Very Uncommon
The heart can develop its own cancer, called cardiac sarcoma. This is a type of primary heart cancer, meaning it starts in the heart itself. However, this condition is very uncommon. Most doctors may never see a single case in their career.
Secondary Heart Tumors: More Common Than You Think
What happens more often is that cancer from another organ — such as the lungs, breast, or kidneys — spreads to the heart. This is called a secondary or metastatic heart tumor. Even so, this is still considered a rare event overall.
Most Heart Tumors Are Not Cancerous
Here is an important and reassuring fact: the majority of heart tumors are actually benign (non-cancerous). A common example is a cardiac myxoma — a benign growth that can still cause symptoms and needs medical attention, but is not cancer.
Symptoms to Watch For
Whether a heart tumor is cancerous or benign, it can still cause problems if it grows or blocks blood flow. Symptoms may include:
- Breathlessness (feeling short of breath even at rest or with mild activity)
- Chest pain or discomfort
- Palpitations (awareness of irregular or fast heartbeats)
- Fluid buildup around the heart (called pericardial effusion), which can cause pressure and swelling
These symptoms can also be caused by many other heart conditions, so they should never be ignored.
Why Early Diagnosis Matters
Dr. Pachani highlights that early diagnosis is key. With today's imaging tools — such as echocardiography (an ultrasound of the heart) and cardiac MRI — doctors can detect unusual growths in the heart at an early stage. The sooner a heart tumor is found and correctly identified, the better the chances of choosing the right treatment.
Key Takeaway
Cancer of the heart is rare, but it is real. Most heart tumors are benign, yet they still require proper evaluation. If you or a loved one experience unexplained breathlessness, chest pain, or palpitations, do not delay seeking medical advice.
If you have any concerns about your heart health, consider booking a consultation with a qualified cardiologist for a thorough evaluation.