Geriatric Cancer: Understanding, Managing, and Preventing Cancer in Older Adults

Cancer is a condition that affects people of all ages, but it is significantly more common among older adults.

- TDG NETWORK

As life expectancy increases globally, the number of elderly people diagnosed with cancer is also rising. This demographic shift requires a specific focus on the health challenges of older individuals, especially when it comes to detecting, treating, and managing cancer.

Geriatric cancer care involves a different approach compared to that for younger individuals. Older adults often have unique health concerns such as slower metabolism, chronic illnesses, reduced mobility, and a generally decreased tolerance for aggressive treatments. Understanding these complexities is key to providing effective, compassionate, and appropriate care for elderly cancer patients.

Aging affects every system in the body. As we grow older, our immune system weakens, making it harder to fight off diseases, including cancer. In addition, our cells are exposed to years of environmental stress, toxins, and wear-and-tear, increasing the chances of abnormal cell growth that leads to cancer.

While cancer is not an inevitable part of aging, the risk certainly increases. The most common types of cancer in older adults include: Breast cancer, Lung cancer, Prostate cancer, Colorectal cancer, Skin cancer.

The key challenge in geriatric oncology lies in balancing the need for effective treatment with the physical and emotional limitations that often accompany aging.

Recognizing cancer in elderly individuals can be more complicated. Many symptoms may overlap with those of aging or chronic diseases, making early detection difficult. However, some common signs to look out for include: Unexplained weight loss, Sudden weight loss without changes in diet or activity could be a red flag, Fatigue and weakness, Changes in bowel or bladder habits, Pain or discomfort, Lumps or unusual swelling, Difficulty swallowing or persistent indigestion, Coughing or hoarseness that won't go away.

This could be a sign of lung or throat cancer.