Perspectives on cancer care in older patients in France

Ecancermedicalscience. 2020 Sep 15:14:1103. doi: 10.3332/ecancer.2020.1103. eCollection 2020.

Abstract

In France, cancer is the leading cause of death. Its incidence is increasing due to the growing population and longer life expectancy. Although older adults represent most new cases, they remain underrepresented in clinical trials. Their prognosis is often worse due to delayed diagnosis and multimorbidities. Geriatric oncology has made great strides worldwide, highlighted by important studies implementing geriatric assessment in clinical research and supported by the successive national cancer plans. This paper reviews the most important actions taken in France during the last decade to improve the management of older patients with cancer.

Keywords: France; aging; cancer; geriatric assessment; geriatric oncology; global health; health services; older.

Publication types

  • Review