Study of Geriatric Assessment to Guide Cancer Treatment in Patients Aged 70 and Older

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are investigating cancer management in older adults, focusing on patients aged 70 years or older diagnosed with solid or hematologic cancers. The study explores how a comprehensive Geriatric Assessment GA can help oncologists make better treatment decisions by evaluating patients overall health, comorbidities, functional abilities, nutrition, cognition, mood, medications, and social support. This approach aims to address the challenges of treating elderly cancer patients who often have complex health status and varied needs. Participants receive an extensive GA conducted by geriatricians that covers nine key health domains, including functional status, mobility, nutrition, cognitive function, mood, comorbidities, polypharmacy, social environment, and incontinence. After this assessment, oncologists review and may adjust their initial treatment proposals based on the GA findings, typically within about two weeks. The study tracks treatment feasibility, chemotherapy toxicities, and overall survival at one and five years. During the study, participants undergo the GA evaluation and their treatment decisions are monitored through multidisciplinary meetings. Researchers collect data on chemotherapy side effects, treatment completion, and mortality over time, following patients for up to five years. The study involves ongoing observation without experimental treatments, focusing on how GA influences oncologist decisions and patient outcomes in routine clinical care.

Elderly CAncer Patient