What is the primary risk factor for cancer in older adults in Canada?

The primary and unavoidable risk factor for cancer is aging itself, especially concerning for Canada's growing senior population.

Why are geriatric assessments important for cancer treatment decisions?

Geriatric assessments help oncologists understand how cancer treatments impact older adults' overall health, cognition, and quality of life, ensuring care aligns with patient wishes.

Are there specialized geriatric oncology clinics in Canada?

Canada has a few specialized geriatric oncology clinics, with notable ones in Montréal and Toronto, and others under development, aiming to improve care for older adults with cancer.

Home / Health / Age: Cancer's Unavoidable Culprit Revealed

Age: Cancer's Unavoidable Culprit Revealed

24 Nov

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Summary

Age is the most significant, unavoidable risk factor for cancer.
Older adults require specialized geriatric assessments before treatment.
Specialized geriatric oncology clinics offer cost savings and better care.

Age: Cancer's Unavoidable Culprit Revealed

Aging is identified as the primary, unavoidable risk factor for cancer, a pressing issue given the rapid growth of Canada's senior population. Projections indicate a substantial increase in individuals over 65 by 2068, intensifying the need for effective cancer care strategies for this demographic.

Despite international recommendations for geriatric assessments before cancer treatment, Canada has a limited number of specialized geriatric oncology clinics. These assessments are crucial for understanding how treatments affect older adults, considering their existing conditions and life expectancy, and centering care on patient priorities.

Barriers to widespread adoption include cost, though studies show significant cost savings from these clinics. Health human resources, particularly a shortage of geriatricians, and deeply embedded ageism also hinder progress. Innovative, nurse-led models and targeted programs for the most frail are proposed solutions.

Disclaimer: This story has been auto-aggregated and auto-summarised by a computer program. This story has not been edited or created by the Feedzop team.