Age and treatment choices in advanced colorectal cancer

Abstract

SUMMARY Colorectal cancer is primarily a disease of the elderly. During the past 15 years, the median survival for metastatic colorectal cancer has increased significantly. Older patients are a heterogeneous population, and chronological age is not a reliable predictor of tolerance of treatment. There is now a significant body of evidence that demonstrates equal efficacy and tolerability of treatment between older and younger patients. Despite this, chemotherapy use declines with advancing age. Further research is needed to enable optimal management of this significant group of patients.