[Influence of age on oncology care]

The management of older adults with cancer represents a major public health challenge due to population aging and the increasing incidence of cancer with age. This management is more complex due to the heterogeneity of older patients, marked by comorbidities, geriatric syndromes, polypharmacy, and frailty that may be exacerbated by anticancer treatments. Despite therapeutic advances, survival among older patients remains lower than in younger individuals, partly due to ageism (limited screening, delayed care, reduced access to innovations, etc.) but also due to frailty (comorbidities, dependence, etc.) that increases with age, requiring a trade-off with cancer in overall management.Frailty assessment is essential to adapt the therapeutic strategy. In geriatric oncology, screening relies in particular on the G8 tool, which helps identify patients who require a comprehensive geriatric assessment (CGA). This assessment provides a multidimensional analysis of functional, mobility, nutritional, cognitive and mood status, comorbidities, and social environment. CGA has diagnostic, prognostic, and interventional value, frequently leading to changes in the initial treatment plan and enabling the implementation of targeted non-oncological interventions.Management should be multidisciplinary, individualized, and dynamic, integrating supportive care, prevention of malnutrition and falls, adapted physical activity, rigorous treatment management, and prevention of iatrogenic complications. Effective communication with patients and caregivers, consideration of the socio-environmental context, and efficient coordination among healthcare professionals are essential to preserve autonomy and ensure the best possible quality of life throughout the care pathway.