The added challenges of bone metastases treatment in elderly patients

Most cancers occur in those older than the age of 65 years. As the population of the world ages and life expectancies continue to increase, it is important to address treatment challenges for elderly patients. This narrative review details the challenges of palliative radiotherapy treatment for elderly patients with bone metastases. We begin with the definition of elderly and its appropriateness, outlining recent demographic data of patients with cancer. The current status of elderly participation in clinical trials is discussed by reviewing the recent literature and clinical trial data. Factors affecting enrolment of the elderly are assessed, with a focus on palliative radiotherapy trials, and what we can do to improve accrual in this data-driven setting. At present, there is a lack of level 1 evidence that evaluates the optimal treatment for elderly patients with bone metastases. Therefore, a review of safety and efficacy is given based on previously published reports. Palliative radiotherapy for elderly patients is a worthwhile treatment and should be recommended regardless of age, as supported by available evidence. Patient, family and physician concerns about physical burden may be reduced as single treatments (that often can be done in a single visit) are as beneficial as multiple treatments for painful bone metastases. In elderly patients, radiotherapy may even be the best treatment for these cases as opioid-related adverse events are amplified in this group and often dosages are more difficult to titrate. Clinicians should continue to encourage the enrolment of elderly patients on to clinical trials as these data form the basis of optimal treatment guidelines. Radiation oncologists are encouraged to reduce the physical burden for elderly patients by offering single treatments where appropriate and completing consultation, treatment simulation and treatment in a single clinical visit.