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Updated: Jul 4, 2026
03:59
Therapeutic Massage for Psychological Well-being in Geriatric Oncology
Published on: May 22, 2026
[Chemotherapy in the elderly: how and for whom?]
Danièle Avenin1, Frédéric Selle, Joseph Gligorov
1Service d'oncologie médicale, hôpital Tenon, CancerEst, Université Pierre et Marie Curie, 4, rue de la Chine, 75970 Paris Cedex 20, France.
Bulletin Du Cancer
|January 28, 2009
Summary
Cancer management in older adults is crucial, as aging affects organ function and treatment tolerance. Individualized care based on physiologic performance, not just chronological age, is vital for effective chemotherapy.
Area of Science:
- Geriatric Oncology
- Cancer Biology
- Aging Research
Context:
- Cancer is a disease of aging, with over 60% of diagnoses in individuals over 65.
- Older adults represent a growing demographic in Western societies.
- Cancer in older patients presents unique biological and physiological considerations compared to younger individuals.
Purpose:
- To highlight the distinct nature of cancer in older adults.
- To emphasize the need for individualized cancer treatment approaches.
- To underscore the importance of physiologic assessment in guiding therapy.
Summary:
- Aging is associated with progressive decline in organ function (renal, pulmonary, cardiac, immune, etc.).
- Age-related functional changes and comorbidities significantly impact anti-cancer therapy toxicities.
- Chronological age is an insufficient metric; performance status and physiological function are paramount for treatment decisions.
Impact:
- Promotes personalized cancer treatment strategies for the elderly.
- Aims to improve treatment outcomes and reduce toxicity in older cancer patients.
- Informs clinical practice regarding the assessment and management of geriatric oncology patients.
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