Although most cancers occur in older people, trials and studies of cancer tend to exclude them. An upper age-limit is usually taken as a 'cut-off' point. Yet most of the medications 'studied' may be applicable to older patients.
Recently three leading oncology related organisations have come up with a position statement asking for 'removal of any arbitrary upper age limit' in all studies on cancer and its treatment. Doctors need much clear and open information and advice when faced with an older patient with a diagnosed cancerous disorder ; only properly conducted studies on older people could provide such data
prior to commencement of treatment or not. Efficacy and toxicity of anti cancer agents are especially relevant for older subjects whose tolerance threshold may be different.
Accordingly more research is needed on older people with cancer and indeed with any other condition. Medical and health care research are extremely useful for all individuals , young or old.
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