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Therapeutic Massage for Psychological Well-being in Geriatric Oncology
Published on: May 22, 2026
How does older age influence oncologists' cancer management?
Jill A Foster1, Gregory D Salinas, Dorcas Mansell
1CE Outcomes, LLC, 107 Frankfurt Circle, Birmingham, Alabama 35211, USA. Jill.Foster@ceoutcomes.com
The Oncologist
|May 25, 2010
Summary
Oncologists are less likely to recommend intensive cancer treatment for older patients, even those who are healthy. This suggests undertreatment in geriatric cancer care, highlighting the need for better assessment tools.
Area of Science:
- Geriatric Oncology
- Clinical Decision-Making
- Cancer Treatment Efficacy
Background:
- Over 50% of new cancer diagnoses affect individuals aged 65 and older.
- Despite potential benefits, older cancer patients are frequently undertreated.
- Geriatric cancer management presents unique challenges and considerations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate medical oncologists' treatment preferences for geriatric cancer patients.
- To identify factors influencing treatment decisions in older adults with cancer.
- To assess the impact of patient age on recommended cancer therapy intensity.
Main Methods:
- U.S. medical oncologists surveyed with four cancer vignettes (colon, breast, lung, prostate).
- Participants were randomized to receive vignettes with either younger (<65) or older (>70) patient ages.
- Survey assessed treatment recommendations and influential factors in geriatric cancer management.
Main Results:
- Intensive cancer therapy was recommended less frequently for older patients compared to younger, otherwise identical patients.
- For metastatic colon cancer, recommendations shifted from intensive to less intensive treatment when patient age increased from 63 to 85.
- For stage IIA breast cancer, intensive adjuvant treatment recommendations decreased from 93% for a 63-year-old to 66% for a 75-year-old.
Conclusions:
- Advanced age alone can lead oncologists to avoid intensive cancer therapy, irrespective of patient's functional status or comorbidities.
- Comprehensive geriatric assessments and tailored treatment education are crucial to combat undertreatment in elderly cancer patients.
- Addressing age bias in treatment decisions is essential for improving cancer care outcomes in the geriatric population.
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