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Heart Health and Breast Cancer: Why It Matters

Breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in women, while cardiovascular disease remains the leading cause of death among women in Singapore. Together, they account for a large proportion of morbidity and mortality. The important thing to note is that they are connected in many ways, especially for breast cancer patients and survivors.The strong link between heart health and cancer has led to the growth of cardio-oncology - a multidisciplinary approach dedicated to protecting the heart throughout the cancer journey and improving long-term survival for cancer survivors at higher risk of heart disease.¹Why Breast Cancer Survivors Are at Higher Heart Risk Treatment-related cardiac effects of cancer therapy play a major role. Some common breast cancer treatments can affect heart health: Anthracycline chemotherapy (e.g. doxorubicin) is linked to heart damage.² Risk increases with higher cumulative doses and in patients with pre-existing cardiovascular risk factors. Trastuzumab (Herceptin) can affect cardiac function, especially when combined with other agents that affect the heart.² Unlike anthracyclines, trastuzumab-related heart dysfunction is often reversible when detected early. Radiotherapy, especially to the left side of the chest, can unintentionally affect the heart.² Modern techniques have reduced but not eliminated this risk. These effects may not appear immediately; slow, cumulative damage can develop years after treatment.²Heart-Healthy StrategiesA. Stay Active Physical activity is one of the most powerful ways to reduce cardiovascular risk after breast cancer³: Survivors who are physically active have a significantly lower risk of cardiovascular death and all-cause mortality.³ Even adding ~2,500 extra steps per day or moderate exercise can reduce risk.³ Guideline recommendation: According to the Health Promotion Board (HPB) and World Health Organisation, aim for at least 150-300 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic physical activity per week, or 75 minutes of vigorous activity, plus strength training on 2 days/week.³B. Eat a Heart-Healthy Diet Nutrition plays a key role in cardiovascular health: Diets similar to DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) or Mediterranean patterns are associated with lower risk of heart disease in breast cancer survivors.⁴ Focus on fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats, while minimising processed foods, added sugars, and excessive salt.⁴ This supports healthy blood pressure and overall heart function.C. Monitor Key Risk Factors Regular monitoring of cardiovascular risk factors is essential: Blood pressure Blood cholesterol Blood sugar Weight Physical inactivity Smoking status These factors contribute to cancer-related heart risk and can often be improved through lifestyle changes or medication.²D. Work with Your Healthcare Team Collaborating with oncology and cardiology teams improves outcomes¹,²: Tailored cardiovascular risk assessments before, during, and after treatment - including heart imaging (such as echocardiograms) and functional evaluations when appropriate - help detect issues early.² Shared-care models that involve oncologists, cardiologists, primary care, and rehabilitation professionals achieve the best long-term results.¹E. Consider Structured Rehabilitation Some programmes, called Cardio-Oncology Rehabilitation (CORE), integrate cardiovascular and cancer survivorship care¹,³: Exercise training Nutritional counselling Psychological support Education on risk factors Smoking cessation support These programmes are similar to traditional cardiac rehabilitation programmes but adapted for cancer survivors, and can reduce long-term heart risk and support overall health.Summary Breast cancer survivors face elevated long-term risk for cardiovascular disease due to treatment effects and shared risk factors.1,2 The good news is that this risk can be managed and reduced through: Regular physical activity³ Heart-healthy eating⁴ Routine monitoring of cardiovascular risk factors² Close collaboration with healthcare providers¹ Many cancer centres and breast surgeons in Singapore now work closely with cardiologists to monitor heart health during and after treatment. With proactive care, breast cancer survivors can improve long-term heart health and overall quality of life.Article reviewed by Dr Benji Lim, Interventional Cardiologist at Novena Heart Centre.References Mehta LS, Watson KE, Barac A, Beckie TM, Bittner V, Cruz-Flores S, et al. Cardiovascular disease and breast cancer: where these entities intersect: a scientific statement from the American Heart Association. Circulation. 2018;137(8):e30-e66. doi:10.1161/CIR.0000000000000556. Epub 2018 Feb 1. PMID: 29437116. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29437116/ Bostany G, Chen Y, Francisco L, et al. Cardiac dysfunction among breast cancer survivors: role of cardiotoxic therapy and cardiovascular risk factors. J Clin Oncol. 2025;43(1):32-45. PMID: 38833638. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38833638/ Wilson OWA, Wojcik KM, Cohen CM, Kamil D, Butera G, Matthews CE , Dieli-Conwright CM , Jayasekera J, et al. Exercise and cardiovascular health among breast cancer survivors: a scoping review. Cardio-Oncology. 2025;11:24. PMID: 40012001. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40012001/ Vo JB, Ramin C, Veiga LHS, Brandt C, Curtis RE, Bodelon C, Barac A, Roger VL, Feigelson HS, Buist DSM, Bowles EJA, Gierach GL, González ABE, et al. Dietary patterns and cardiovascular risk in breast cancer survivors. J Natl Cancer Inst. 2024;[Epub ahead of print]. PMID: 38718210. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38718210/
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Out with the Old: Let Go of These 5 Breast Cancer Survivorship Myths in 2026

Out with the Old: Let Go of These 5 Breast Cancer Survivorship Myths in 2026As we step into a new year, it’s time to leave behind outdated myths and move forward with hope, courage, and fresh perspectives.Life after cancer can feel like a blank canvas, inviting you to write your next chapter in your own way. Survivorship is deeply personal, and others may not always understand the physical and emotional journey you’re carrying.This article highlights common myths about survivorship, offering clarity, support, and encouragement for those navigating life beyond cancer.Myth 1: “Survivorship is only for those who are cancer-free.” Many people see survivorship as life after treatment – a shift from active care to maintaining health and watching for signs of cancer returning [1].In reality, it also includes those living with metastatic (Stage IV) breast cancer, even if some do not identify as “survivors” in the strictest sense [2]. For women needing ongoing treatment, survivorship means managing symptoms, embracing the present moment and planning for the future [1] [2].Every journey is valid. Survivorship isn’t defined solely by the absence of cancer; it’s about living with, through and beyond a diagnosis.Myth 2: “Once treatment ends, I no longer need to see my doctor.” Completing cancer treatment can feel like crossing a finish line, a milestone worth celebrating. However, follow-up care remains a vital compass guiding your long-term health.Regular check-ins help your care team monitor your recovery, manage lingering side effects and address concerns promptly [3]. Your follow-up plan depends on your overall health, the cancer type, and the treatment received [4].Even if you feel anxious before appointments, showing up is an act of quiet courage [5]. Staying connected with your doctor helps you maintain control and provides reassurance as you move forward.Myth 3: “Surviving cancer means I should ‘bounce back’ quickly and be the same as before.” It’s natural to long for life before diagnosis. Loved ones may expect you to “return to normal” and not understand why cancer still casts a shadow, leaving you feeling alone [6] [7].Beyond bodily changes and lingering side effects, many survivors live with the fear of recurrence, where minor aches can trigger deep worry [6]. You may also grieve the person you once were or the life you imagined [8].Yet life after cancer, while complex, holds space for new strength and growth. Healing means honouring your feelings and granting yourself grace, and embracing each day as a gradual step toward new beginnings.Myth 4: “If I have difficult days, it means I’m not coping well.” There’s no right or wrong way to cope with life after cancer. Everyone’s journey is unique, and comparing yourself to others only adds pressure [4].Feeling anxious, low or overwhelmed doesn’t mean you are failing. These feelings are simply part of the healing journey.It’s okay to not feel positive all the time [8]. Allowing yourself to experience difficult emotions, such as sadness or fear, is a healthy way to process what you’ve been through.Crying isn’t weakness – it’s a gentle release that eases emotional burden and improves mood [9]. If sharing your feelings feels hard, writing them down can be a helpful alternative [4]. Instead of locking away your emotions, be honest with yourself and let them out in ways that feel right for you [5].On tough days, pause and reflect on how far you’ve come and celebrate the strength and resilience you’ve shown [5].Myth 5: “I’m unable to lead an active or vibrant life as a survivor.” For those who’ve finished treatment, reconnecting with yourself and your purpose takes time. The physical changes and emotional weight of the cancer journey can make living meaningfully feel more challenging [10].Yet a cancer diagnosis can spark reflection and encourage you to reassess what matters most [1] [10].Whether you’re post-treatment or living with advanced cancer, cherishing small moments, rediscovering old interests or exploring new ones at your own pace can fill everyday life with meaning and joy [4] [6]. There’s no need to rush or do everything all at once [5]. Living fully doesn’t mean living exactly as before – it means discovering what brings warmth to your heart right now.Creating Space for Compassion At Solis and Luma, we believe survivorship is about creating a safe space for healing – where survivors feel understood, respected and empowered to move forward on their own terms.As we enter 2026, let’s leave behind limiting myths and make room for compassion, nuance and hope. Survivorship isn’t a journey walked alone. It’s shaped by those around us – the assumptions we make, the words we use, and the spaces we create.By challenging misconceptions, we become more empathetic listeners, friends and family members. We can help survivors feel seen, believed and supported – free from the pressure to explain or the rush to heal.The Breast Years of Your Life: Living Well After Cancer is a compassionate companion for those navigating life beyond cancer. From nutrition and exercise to sexual intimacy, each chapter is a gentle guide through the journey. Learn more and grab your copy here: https://www.solis.sg/the-breast-years-of-your-life/References [1] Journal of Surgical Oncology, Breast cancer survivorship [2] ASCO Educational Book, Survivorship Care for People Affected by Advanced or Metastatic Cancer: Building on the Recent Multinational Association of Supportive Care in Cancer-ASCO Standards and Practice Recommendations [3] American Cancer Society, Follow-up Care After Breast Cancer Treatment [4] National Cancer Institute, Facing Forward: Life After Cancer Treatment [5] Mayo Clinic, Cancer Survivors: Managing Your Emotions After Cancer Treatment [6] European Society for Medical Oncology, The Guide for Patients on Survivorship [7] Annals of Palliative Medicine, Is cancer back?—psychological issues faced by survivors of breast cancer [8] Cancer Council, Living Well After Cancer [9] International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, Crying Therapy Intervention for Breast Cancer Survivors: Development and Effects [10] Journal of Cancer Survivorship, Psychosocial experiences of breast cancer survivors: a meta-review
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The Gentle Power of Gratitude: How Saying Thanks Can Brighten the Journey Ahead

As the year draws to a close, it’s natural to pause, look back on what you’ve overcome, and look ahead to what’s to come. Between juggling family commitments, catching up with friends, and trying to carve out quiet spaces for yourself, your days may have felt full and fast. Amidst the busyness and the emotional ups and downs, it’s easy to overlook the small stitches that quietly hold your story together and carry you forward. This festive season, let’s explore how cultivating gratitude can be a gentle gift to yourself. Why Giving Space for Gratitude MattersFor those navigating the rocky waves of the breast cancer journey, feeling thankful can sometimes feel out of reach. Whether you’re managing lingering treatment side effects or adjusting to your new normal beyond cancer, you’re coping with challenges that extend beyond everyday stressors. In moments when uncertainty looms, carving out space for self-reflection can feel especially difficult.Yet research shows that practising gratitude can support emotional well-being and quality of life—improving mood and reducing symptoms of depression and anxiety [1] [2] [3]. Gratitude doesn’t erase hardship, but it can become a quiet strength woven through your healing process. Finding Light in Small MomentsGratitude isn’t about pretending things are easy or forcing positivity. Instead it’s a grounding tool–a meaningful companion you can lean on during overwhelming days.It’s the gentle act of refocusing your perspective and noticing the small things that made the year feel a little softer: warm conversations, friendships that held you up, milestones like completing a follow-up appointment, or even the comfort of a favourite meal [4]. Gratitude doesn’t need to be saved for special occasions or big breakthroughs [4].  You can weave it into daily life, little by little, reminding yourself that even in difficult seasons, life still holds pockets of goodness.Simple Ways to Practise GratitudeExpressing and internalising gratitude may feel unfamiliar at first. But like any habit, it gets easier with gentle repetition. Setting aside even a minute or two each day can help you build the practice slowly–like knitting a sweater, one careful stitch at a time.Here are four ways to invite gratitude into your everyday moments: Start a Gratitude Journal Write down a few things you’re thankful for, no matter how small. Some days, even the simple act of waking up and getting dressed for the day is worth acknowledging.Whether on paper or digitally, this practice encourages mindful reflection and can help lower stress and depressive symptoms over time [3].What you write becomes a comforting reference–something you can return to on tougher days when you need a reminder of how far you’ve come [4].Express Thanks Out Loud Taking a moment to thank someone–your care team, a family member, a friend, or even the friendly hawker stall aunty–can brighten your day and theirs.Intentionally showing appreciation helps strengthen meaningful connections and fosters a sense of emotional support [4] [5].Write a Letter or Thank-You Note If expressing gratitude verbally seems daunting, writing it down can be a gentle alternative [1]. Think of someone who has supported you in your journey, and write why you’re grateful for them.This can be a message to someone dear–or even a letter to yourself, reflecting on your own strength, resilience, and growth.Take a Gratitude Walk Step outside and notice simple joys: the warmth of sunshine, flowers in bloom, or children laughing in the playground.Changing your surroundings can offer a calming pause and help you engage in grateful contemplation, making room for fresh perspectives when cancer feels ever-present and everyday stressors feel heavy [5] [6].These gentle practices aren’t about doing more–they’re about noticing more and appreciating the things that often go unseen.Everyone’s relationship with gratitude is deeply personal. For some it can be a helpful tool; for others, it may feel difficult or uneven at times. There’s no “right” way to be grateful. What matters most is finding what supports you on your unique path.A Closing NoteAt Solis and Luma, we believe survivorship isn’t a destination but a journey woven from many moments. Some are bright, some are challenging–but each one is a part of your story. It’s in these moments, stitched together by courage, hope and gratitude, that healing takes shape. As we turn the page to a new year, may you find comfort in the small things that carried you through 2025, and strength in the ones still to come. In your patchwork tapestry of healing, it’s these gentle threads of gratitude that strengthen every stitch, every patch, every seam. References[1] International Journal of Women's Health, A Grateful Disposition Promotes the Well-Being of Women with Breast Cancer Through Adaptive Coping[2]  Frontiers in Psychology, Using a Gratitude Intervention to Improve the Lives of Women With Breast Cancer: A Daily Diary Study[3]  Current Oncology, Effects of Gratitude Journaling on Patients with Breast Cancer: A Randomized Controlled Trial [4] Cleveland Clinic, 7 Ways To Boost Your Health by Practicing Gratitude[5] Journal of Happiness Studies, The Role of Gratitude in Breast Cancer: Its Relationships with Post-traumatic Growth, Psychological Well-Being and Distress [6] International journal of environmental research and public health, Wondering Awe Is the Mediator of the Link Between Experience of Nature and Psychological Wellbeing—Relevance for Public Health
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