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Published on: December 1, 2016
Targeted therapy use in adults with cancer ≥85 years of age
Karen E Wickersham1, Molly Crothers1, Danielle Puth1
1School of Nursing, University of Maryland, Baltimore, Baltimore, Maryland, USA.
Purpose:
Assess patient- and clinical-related variables associated with targeted cancer treatments (TTs) for adults ≥85 years of age.
Rationale:
TTs have pathway-specific side effects that negatively affect QoL and medication adherence, which may reduce TT efficacy. Research has not focused on patients aged ≥85 years; therefore, the scope of TT use in this age group is not understood.
Methods:
We conducted an electronic medical record review to identify individuals ≥85 years treated with TT.
Results:
The sample (N = 295) was 53.5% male, 41% married/partnered, and 73.7% Caucasian. Common cancer types included breast (26.3%), prostate (31.3%), and leukemia (14.1%). Only one-third (n = 98) of the sample had TT side effects noted in their patient chart.
Conclusions:
Patients aged ≥85 years took similar TTs and experienced similar side effects as reported by research of younger patients; however, symptom experience was not well-reported.
Insights
Older adults (≥85 years) use targeted cancer treatments (TTs) similarly to younger patients. However, side effect reporting in medical records for this age group needs improvement for better quality of life and treatment efficacy.
Area of Science:
- Geriatric Oncology
- Pharmacology
- Clinical Research
Background:
- Targeted cancer treatments (TTs) have specific side effects impacting quality of life and adherence.
- Limited research exists on TT use and outcomes in patients aged 85 years and older.
- Understanding TT use in the oldest adults is crucial for optimizing care.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess patient and clinical variables linked to targeted cancer treatments (TTs) in adults aged 85 years and above.
- To understand the scope and characteristics of TT use in the oldest patient population.
Main Methods:
- An electronic medical record review was performed.
- Identified individuals aged 85 years and older who received TTs.
- Collected data on patient demographics, cancer types, and documented side effects.
Main Results:
- The study included 295 patients (53.5% male, 41% married/partnered, 73.7% Caucasian).
- Common cancers treated with TTs were breast (26.3%), prostate (31.3%), and leukemia (14.1%).
- Only one-third of patients (n=98) had TT-related side effects documented in their charts.
Conclusions:
- Patients aged 85 and older utilize TTs and experience side effects comparable to younger populations.
- There is a significant underreporting of symptom experience in the medical records of older adults receiving TTs.
- Improved documentation of side effects is needed to enhance quality of life and treatment effectiveness in this demographic.
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