Care of the elderly patient with prostate cancer: what's new and what's the same

As the number of men in the United States 65 years of age or older increases--from 12% in 2000 to 20% in 2030--the burden of prostate cancer also is increasing. Standard therapy is appropriate for healthy men with a life expectancy of more than 10 years; however, clinicians may fear either overtreating frail patients or undertreating patients who are physically fit. Evidence suggests the best approach is to conduct a comprehensive geriatric assessment using available measures and published guidelines to individualize treatment plans. Recent Food and Drug Administration approval of cabazitaxel, sipuleucel-T, and denosumab has expanded available treatment options. Managing symptoms related to disease complications and side effects of treatment is increasingly more complicated with the addition of these new regimens and extended life expectancy. Pharmacists' participation in patient assessment and supportive care are necessary components of comprehensive care for cancer patients.