Treatment considerations for the elderly person with cancer.
In an aging population, the number of patients with cancer continues to rise. Little research has focused on the treatment of cancer in the elderly. Therefore, the treatment for various cancers differs across the healthcare system. A uniform approach in assessing the elderly person with cancer is lacking. This article describes two case studies in the elderly population, focusing on two common cancers: acute myelogenous leukemia and breast cancer. Common side effects of treatment and determinants of treatment options are discussed. It is important that the elderly receive appropriate screening, early detection, treatment, and management of comorbidities.
Simpson
Jennifer K
JK
University of Pittsburgh, Graduate School of Public Health, Women's Health Office, 516 Parran Hall, 130 DeSoto Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15261, USA. jsimp@stargate.net
Rosenzweig
Margaret Quinn
MQ
D000368:Aged; D000971:Antineoplastic Combined Chemotherapy Protocols / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D001943:Breast Neoplasms / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000628:therapy*; D019468:Disease Management; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D015470:Leukemia, Myeloid, Acute / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000188:drug therapy*; D008297:Male; D011379:Prognosis