A systematic review of factors influencing older adults’ decision to accept or decline cancer treatment

Abstract

Although the reasons why older adults with cancer accepted or declined treatment varied considerably, the most consistent determinant was physician recommendation. Further studies using large, representative samples and exploring decision-making incorporating health literacy and comorbidity are needed.

Treatment decision-making in elderly women with ovarian cancer: an age-based comparison

“…In a survey among 93 oncologists on chemotherapy decision-making in older cancer patients, patient preference was one of the most influential factors 22. Patient preference concerning treatment options is mainly based on the information provided by the treating physician and patients’ choice of treatment depends largely on their physicians’ recommendation 23. Patients thus need to be extensively informed about the completion and complication rates of treatment of ovarian cancer in current practice to make an informed and shared decision.…”

Definitive Chemoradiotherapy in Elderly Cervical Cancer Patients: A Multiinstitutional Analysis

“…16 Although the reasons why older adults with cancer accepted or declined treatment varied considerably, the most consistent determinant was physician recommendation. 17 Various studies have investigated the impact of advanced age in cervical cancer, with conflicting results (Table 3). 3Y10,13,14 Elderly patients with cervical cancer were more likely to present in the advanced stages.…”

Biomolecular bases of the senescence process and cancer. A new approach to oncological treatment linked to ageing

“…These small molecules are of great interest from the point of view of future clinical therapy, as they can be encapsulated in nanoparticles and directed to a particular cell target, sparing healthy cells in the body and, therefore, greatly diminishing side-effects. This constitutes without any doubt a great advance compared to the currently available and highly used chemotherapy and radiotherapy that, apart from not being selective, have serious body-weakening effects that mean they cannot be tolerated by many aged patients (Puts et al 2015). The latest proof-of-concept findings on miRNA therapy are promising for cancer treatment in elderly people, although further researchbased knowledge is needed to translate them into an effective molecular treatments for cancer linked to ageing.…”