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Age as a predictive factor in glioblastomas: population-based study.
Daisuke Kita1, Ilja F Ciernik, Salvatore Vaccarella
1International Agency for Research on Cancer, Lyon, France.
Neuroepidemiology
|March 28, 2009
Summary
Glioblastoma treatment in Switzerland showed age-based disparities, with older patients receiving less aggressive care. Younger glioblastoma patients undergoing surgery and radiotherapy had better survival rates, suggesting age impacts radiotherapy response.
Area of Science:
- Neuro-oncology
- Geriatric Medicine
- Public Health
Background:
- Glioblastoma is a highly aggressive brain tumor with poor prognosis.
- Treatment patterns for glioblastoma can vary based on patient age and available resources.
- Understanding population-level treatment trends is crucial for optimizing care.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze glioblastoma treatment patterns in a defined population over a 15-year period.
- To investigate the influence of patient age on treatment intensity and survival outcomes.
- To identify potential disparities in care for elderly glioblastoma patients.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of 715 glioblastoma patients diagnosed between 1980-1994 in Zurich, Switzerland.
- Evaluation of treatment modalities including surgery, radiotherapy, and best supportive care (BSC).
- Comparison of treatment rates and survival across different age groups.
Main Results:
- A significant trend towards less aggressive treatment with increasing patient age was observed.
- Patients under 65 received more frequent surgery and/or radiotherapy compared to older cohorts.
- Younger patients (<60) showed significantly higher survival rates with surgery plus radiotherapy or radiotherapy alone, but not with surgery alone or BSC.
Conclusions:
- Elderly glioblastoma patients were less likely to receive aggressive treatment, including surgery and radiotherapy.
- Reduced survival in older glioblastoma patients may be partly attributed to a diminished response to radiotherapy.
- Population-level data highlight age-related variations in glioblastoma management and outcomes.