Geriatric Cancer: Challenges, trends, and the path forward

India is experiencing a demographic shift, with a significant increase in its elderly population.

- DR TARACHAND GUPTA

By 2031, the number of individuals aged 60 and above is projected to reach approximately 194 million, placing immense pressure on the nation's healthcare system. Concurrently, cancer incidence rises with age, making geriatric oncology—a specialized field focusing on cancer care for older adults—an urgent priority.

Geriatric cancer refers to cancer that occurs in older adults, typically those aged 60 years and above. While cancer can affect individuals of any age, the risk increases significantly with age due to a combination of genetic changes, longer exposure to carcinogens, and weakened immune systems. Geriatric oncology is the specialized field of medicine that addresses the unique challenges of diagnosing and treating cancer in older patients.

Older adults with cancer often have complex health profiles, including other chronic illnesses (like diabetes, heart disease, or dementia), reduced organ function, and different levels of physical and cognitive fitness. These factors require careful consideration when planning treatment.

COMMON TYPES OF GERIATRIC CANCERS
Some cancers are more prevalent in the elderly, including:

SYMPTOMS OF GERIATRIC CANCER
Symptoms of cancer in older adults may be subtle or mistaken for normal aging. Common symptoms include: