Senior Adult Oncology Clinical Practice Guidelines in Oncology

Abstract

By 2030, researchers estimate that 20% of the U.S. population will be 65 years or older. More than 50% of all new cancers in the United States occur in this patient population. In addition, the increased incidence and prevalence of cancer in older patients and the increased lifespan of older adults mean that cancer in older individuals is becoming an increasingly common problem. Specific issues include geriatric screening and assessment, preventing or decreasing complications from therapy, accounting for disease-specific issues, and managing patients who cannot tolerate standard treatment. The NCCN Senior Adult Oncology Panel has developed guidelines for addressing these issues and for assessing the risks and benefits of treatment in older patients with cancer. For the most recent version of the guidelines, please visit NCCN.org