Related Experiment Video
Updated: Apr 21, 2026

Testing Targeted Therapies in Cancer using Structural DNA Alteration Analysis and Patient-Derived Xenografts
Published on: July 25, 2020
Research priorities in geriatric oncology for 2013 and beyond
Supriya Mohile1, William Dale2, Allison Magnuson1
1James Wilmot Cancer Center, University of Rochester, Rochester, New York, US.
Abstract:
The incidence of cancer increases with advanced age. Unfortunately, there is a significant lack of evidence regarding the safety and efficacy of treatments. The oncology community also lacks information regarding which older patients are most likely to benefit from treatment without undue toxicities. Interventions to lower symptoms and reduce long-term complications from cancer and cancer treatment in older patients are urgently needed. Establishing research priorities in geriatric oncology could help guide researchers and focus efforts on interventions that have the highest likelihood of improving outcomes. The Cancer and Aging Research Group, in partnership with the National Institute on Aging and National Cancer Institute, held linked conferences as part of a U13 grant in September of 2010 and November of 2012, summarising the gaps in knowledge in geriatric oncology and recommending ways to close these gaps. The overall purpose of this review is to highlight the important research priorities in geriatric oncology from the literature and from the previous U13 meetings. More evidence regarding the treatment of older cancer patients is urgently needed given the rapid aging of the population.
Insights
Research on cancer treatment for older adults is urgently needed. Establishing geriatric oncology research priorities will improve treatment outcomes and reduce complications for aging cancer patients.
Area of Science:
- Geriatric Oncology
- Cancer Research
- Aging and Health
Background:
- Cancer incidence rises with age, yet evidence on treatment safety and efficacy in older adults is limited.
- Identifying older patients who benefit most from cancer treatment without severe toxicities remains a challenge.
- There is a critical need for interventions to manage symptoms and long-term complications of cancer and its treatment in the elderly population.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight key research priorities in geriatric oncology.
- To address knowledge gaps identified in previous U13 grant-funded conferences.
- To guide future research efforts in improving outcomes for older cancer patients.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on geriatric oncology.
- Synthesis of findings and recommendations from linked U13 conferences held in 2010 and 2012.
- Identification of critical research gaps and future directions.
Main Results:
- Significant gaps exist in understanding cancer treatment benefits and toxicities in older adults.
- Prioritizing research in geriatric oncology is essential for advancing care.
- The rapid aging of the global population underscores the urgency for more evidence-based geriatric oncology.
Conclusions:
- Establishing clear research priorities in geriatric oncology is crucial.
- Further research is imperative to optimize cancer treatment for the growing elderly population.
- Addressing the unique needs of older cancer patients will improve their quality of life and survival outcomes.
More Related Videos
Related Concept Videos
Pharmacodynamics in Geriatric Patients: Effects of Age
Drug Dosing: Geriatric Patients
Pharmacokinetics in Geriatric Patients: Effect of Age on Drug Distribution
Pharmacokinetics in Geriatric Patients: Effect of Age on Drug Metabolism
Pharmacokinetics in Geriatric Patients: Effect of Age on Drug Excretion
Treatment Resistant Cancers

