Cancer survivorship and aging

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Oncology
• Health Sciences

Background:

• Cancer disproportionately affects older adults, with over 60% of new diagnoses and survivors being 65 years or older.
• Older cancer survivors represent a significant and vulnerable population requiring focused research.
• Cancer in older adults occurs alongside normal aging and other chronic conditions, complicating their health outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review and synthesize published research on the physical and mental functioning of older cancer survivors.
• To examine studies of newly diagnosed older adults (>=65 years) and long-term survivors (>=5 years, >=65 years).

Main Methods:

• Systematic review of existing literature on older cancer survivors' functioning.
• Analysis of studies focusing on both newly diagnosed and long-term survivors aged 65 and above.
• Comparison of findings with individuals without a history of cancer.

Main Results:

• Older cancer survivors are more likely to experience physical functional impairments than psychological ones.
• Evidence suggests older cancer survivors may have poorer physical and psychological health compared to age-matched non-cancer peers.
• Comorbidities and symptoms significantly impact the functioning of older cancer survivors.

Conclusions:

• Older cancer survivors face significant challenges in physical and psychological functioning, often exceeding those in non-cancer populations.
• Future research should prioritize prospective studies, pre-diagnosis assessments, comparisons with non-cancer groups, and intervention development.
• Addressing comorbidities and symptoms is crucial for improving the well-being of this demographic.