Supportive care needs among older Mexican adults with metastatic cancer

Abstract

Abstract Purpose To compare supportive care needs between older adults with cancer (age ≥ 65 years) and their younger counterparts. Methods We conducted a retrospective analysis of a prospective cohort of patients with newly diagnosed metastatic solid tumors. Supportive care needs were assessed at baseline and at 3-month follow-up. Patients were divided into two groups (aged ≥ 65/<65 years). Differences in clinical characteristics and supportive care needs were compared utilizing descriptive statistics. Multivariate logistic regression models were used to determine patient characteristics associated with specific supportive care needs. Results Between 2018 and 2022, 375 patients were enrolled. Median age was 66 years (IQR 19–94). At baseline, older adults had a higher number of supportive care needs (4.8 vs. 4.2 p = 0.01), and were at higher risk of malnutrition (75 vs. 65%, p = 0.05). Increasing age (OR 1.02 (95%CI 1.0-1.04, p = 0.03) and an estimated life expectancy < 6 months (OR 3.0, 95%CI 1.5–6.1; p < 0.01) were associated with higher odds of malnutrition, while a higher educational level was associated with decreased odds (OR 0.68, 95%CI 0.5–0.8; p < 0.01). At 3-month follow-up, older adults still had a higher number of supportive care needs (3.8vs.2.6, p < 0.01) and were more likely to have fatigue (62 vs. 47%, p = 0.02). An estimated life expectancy < 6 months was associated with increased odds of fatigue (OR 3.0, 95%CI 1.5–6.3; p < 0.01). Conclusion Older adults reported significantly more supportive care needs, particularly risk of malnutrition and fatigue. This information can inform the creation of supportive care services tailored for the needs of older individuals.