Treatment of Cancer in the Elderly
Author Information
Author(s): I.S. Fentiman
Primary Institution: ICRF Clinical Oncology Unit, Guy's Hospital
Conclusion
The elderly are often undertreated for cancer, and their management should be improved through better inclusion in clinical trials and tailored treatment protocols.
Supporting Evidence
- Over 50% of cancer cases occur in individuals aged over 70 years.
- 90% of men aged between 75 and 84 were mobile, indicating many elderly are not frail.
- Only 40% of patients aged over 60 were referred for post-operative irradiation after surgery.
Takeaway
Many older people with cancer don't get the right treatment because doctors think they're too old, but they can often handle it just fine.
Potential Biases
There is a risk of age bias in treatment decisions, leading to inappropriate management of elderly patients.
Limitations
The article discusses the lack of structured management schemes and the exclusion of elderly patients from clinical trials.
Participant Demographics
The article references studies involving elderly patients, particularly those over 70 years old.
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