Faculty Collaboration Database

Management of cancer in the older adult. Clin Geriatr Med 2012 Feb;28(1):33-49

Date

02/14/2012

Pubmed ID

22326034

DOI

10.1016/j.cger.2011.10.003

Scopus ID

2-s2.0-84856802493 (requires institutional sign-in at Scopus site)   12 Citations

Abstract

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.

Author List

Kilari D, Mohile SG

Author

Deepak Kilari MD Associate Professor in the Medicine department at Medical College of Wisconsin

MESH terms used to index this publication - Major topics in bold

Adult
Aged
Aged, 80 and over
Aging
Antineoplastic Agents
Decision Making
Disease Management
Female
Geriatric Assessment
Humans
Male
Neoplasms
Patient Care Planning