CANCER IN THE ELDERLY - AN INTERNATIONAL OVERVIEW

The objective of this study was to assess the patterns of cancer incid ence of elderly populations on a geographic and ethnic basis. Internat ionally published incidence data was used to characterize the status o f cancer in the elderly in selected world locations. Cancer sites revi ewed are those common in the elderly. Incidence data was measured as p ublished by the International Agency for Research Against Cancer and i n appropriate statistical tests. The results indicate that the Western societies have a consistently higher proportion of cancer patients wh o are 65 and older, even when controlling for the age distribution fac tor. Also, the male/female ratio in the elderly is high due mainly to a relatively earlier occurrence of gynecological cancer. Three pattern s characterizing a differentially retarding pattern of cancer incidenc e with age were found: i) a continuous increase, with some slowing pac e of growth in the US and other Western countries. ii) a peak in the 7 5-79 age category followed by a decline. This is noted in less prosper ous European populations, like the former Eastern Bloc countries. iii) a plateau, seen in developing countries like India or Gambia. Non-eti ologic factors contributing to international cancer distribution varia tions among the elderly may include quality and frequency of diagnosti c work-up. This is largely a reflection of a nation's healthcare syste m, as well as its social norms vis-a-vis the elderly. The positive glo bal ageing trend promises increased cancer incidence and prevalence, a nd the need for greater resource allocation for the care of elderly ca ncer patients.