Life Expectancy Comorbidity and Quality of Life

Pretreatment factors predicting quality of life after treatment for head and neck cancer

“…11,20,21 With regard to age, it is often assumed that elderly patients fare worse after treatment, but few data support this view. [21][22][23][24] Functional status, as measured with the Karnofsky performance status (KPS), 25 a reliable and valid instrument to assess the functional status of cancer patients, 26 has been shown to be positively correlated with QOL. 27,28 Last, psychologic status may profoundly influence physical functioning, symptom perception, and mood after treatment.…”

Prediction of depressive symptomatology after treatment of head and neck cancer: The influence of pre-treatment physical and depressive symptoms, coping, and social support

“…9,19,24,34 Sex and age are often assumed to have an influence on depressive symptoms. 36 Elderly patients are often assumed to fare worse after treatment, 37,38 but some studies show younger patients to be especially at risk. 35 Women with cancer are also reported to be at risk for psychologic distress.…”

Patient Age and Cancer Treatment Decisions

“… 1 In elderly cancer patients, life expectancy is a function of age, comorbidity, cancer stage, and treatment. 2 …”

“…In a population that often has chronic illness, function preservation and maintenance of quality of life often represent major factors in treatment decision making. 2,9 Treatment choices often differ in their aggressiveness or invasiveness. Some persons may prefer a treatment that is less likely to be curative if it is regarded as less painful or less invasive.…”