Management of cancer in the older adult.
Cancer incidence and mortality rise exponentially in the elderly. With the aging of the population there is an urgent need to address this issue with evidence-based guidelines. Delayed diagnosis and incomplete workup and treatment are well documented in this population. Incorporation of a geriatric evaluation in oncology practice should be routinely implemented to prevent adverse outcomes. Treatment decisions in the elderly should not be based solely on survival gains but should also take quality of life into consideration. Cancer treatment is safe and effective in the elderly population. Social issues and other comorbidities should be addressed to improve compliance and outcome. Many unanswered questions regarding the optimal management of elderly cancer patients can be addressed only with the new clinical trials. Eliminating age bias among health care providers by providing education will help achieve optimal care for the elderly with cancer.
Department of Medicine, Hematology/Oncology, James P. Wilmot Cancer Center, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY 14642, USA.
Deepak
D
Kilari
Supriya Gupta
SG
Mohile
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D000375:Aging / Q000473:pathology / Q000502:physiology*; D000970:Antineoplastic Agents / Q000009:adverse effects; D003657:Decision Making; D019468:Disease Management; D005260:Female; D015577:Geriatric Assessment; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D009369:Neoplasms / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000628:therapy*; D010347:Patient Care Planning
D000970:Antineoplastic Agents