Journal of Oncology Research and Treatment
Open Access

Geriatric oncology is a specialized field of medicine that focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of cancer in elderly patients. With the global population aging rapidly, the incidence of cancer in older adults is on the rise. Geriatric oncology aims to address the unique challenges faced by older patients while providing personalized and effective cancer care. This study delves into the key aspects of geriatric oncology, including the epidemiology of cancer in the elderly, challenges in diagnosis and treatment, and advancements in supportive care and research.

The incidence of cancer increases with age, and a substantial proportion of cancer patients are now in their senior years. Factors such as cumulative exposure to environmental carcinogens, changes in cellular repair mechanisms, and age-related immune system decline contribute to this trend. Common cancers in the elderly include prostate cancer, lung cancer, colorectal cancer, and hematologic malignancies. Additionally, older adults often present with multiple comorbidities, which can complicate cancer diagnosis and treatment planning.

Historically, older adults have been underrepresented in clinical trials, leading to a lack of evidence-based treatment guidelines tailored to this population. The exclusion of older patients from trials may result from concerns about comorbidities, functional status, and tolerability of treatments. As a result, oncologists may be hesitant to prescribe aggressive treatments to elderly patients, leading to potential under-treatment. Aging is associated with physiological changes that can impact cancer management. Older patients may experience altered drug metabolism, reduced renal and hepatic function, and decreased bone marrow reserve. These factors can affect drug efficacy, toxicity, and treatment tolerability. Consequently, there is a need for geriatricspecific assessments to guide treatment decisions, considering factors beyond chronological age. Elderly patients often take multiple medications to manage various chronic conditions. Polypharmacy can increase the risk of drug interactions, adverse reactions, and noncompliance with cancer treatments. Oncologists must carefully assess medication regimens to avoid potential interactions and tailor treatments accordingly.

Cognitive impairment, such as dementia, is prevalent among older adults. Patients with cognitive decline may struggle to understand complex treatment plans, adhere to medications, or communicate symptoms effectively. This poses challenges for oncologists in providing informed consent and managing treatment decisions. Comprehensive Geriatric Assessment (CGA) is a multidimensional evaluation that assesses a patient's medical, functional, cognitive, and psychosocial status. It helps oncologists identify vulnerabilities and tailor cancer treatments accordingly. CGA enables the development of individualized treatment plans, reducing treatment-related toxicities and improving overall outcomes. To address the unique needs of elderly patients, specialized geriatric oncology clinics have emerged. These clinics integrate the expertise of geriatricians and oncologists to provide complete care, incorporating geriatric assessments and supportive care measures into cancer treatment plans. Palliative care plays a crucial role in geriatric oncology, focusing on improving the quality of life for elderly cancer patients. Integrating palliative care early in the treatment process helps manage symptoms, alleviate distress, and provide emotional support to patients and their families. In geriatric oncology, shared decision making involves collaborative discussions between patients, caregivers, and healthcare professionals. These discussions consider the patient's values, preferences, and goals, ensuring that treatment decisions align with the patient's individual needs.

There are initiatives underway to enhance the participation of older persons in cancer clinical trials. Researchers recognize the importance of generating evidence-based data to guide cancer treatment for this growing population. Emphasizing the need for representative trial participants will lead to more accurate treatment recommendations. Precision medicine, which tailors treatments based on a patient's genetic makeup, holds great potential for geriatric oncology. Genetic testing can help identify specific mutations and predict responses to targeted therapies, enhancing treatment efficacy and reducing unnecessary toxicities. Training programs for healthcare professionals in geriatric oncology are crucial to improve the quality of cancer care for older adults. Increasing awareness of geriatric-specific issues will better equip oncologists to manage the complexities of cancer treatment in the elderly.

Geriatric oncology is a rapidly evolving field that addresses the complex challenges of cancer care in older adults. With the aging population, it is essential to develop evidence-based treatment strategies, improve supportive care, and enhance research efforts in geriatric oncology. By integrating complete geriatric assessments, advancing precision medicine, and increasing the inclusion of older patients in clinical trials, we can strive to provide personalized and effective cancer care to this vulnerable and deserving population.