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New Delhi, India – A recent multicentric observational study conducted across 17 institutions in India has revealed that over one-third of cancer patients in the country are aged 60 years and above, highlighting the growing burden of cancer among older adults.
The study, published in the journal Cancer Epidemiology, analyzed data from 272,488 cancer patients collected between January 2019 and December 2020. Researchers found that 97,962 individuals, representing 36% of the total patient pool, were aged 60 or older. The proportion of elderly cancer patients varied significantly across the participating institutions, ranging from 20.6% to 53.6%.
The median age of older cancer patients was 67 years, with a significant male predominance. Of the patients with recorded sex data, 59.4% were male.
The study also shed light on the most prevalent types of cancer among the elderly population. Head and neck malignancies topped the list, accounting for 19.6% of cases, followed by breast cancer (11%), genitourinary cancers (10.9%), lung cancers (10.7%), hepatopancreaticobiliary cancers (10.7%), and hematological malignancies (9.2%).
“The global demographic and epidemiological transition have led to a rapidly increasing burden of cancer, particularly among older adults,” the researchers stated. “Characterizing the burden of cancer in older adults is crucial to enable tailored interventions and additional research to improve the care and support for this vulnerable population.”
The findings underscore the need for targeted healthcare strategies and research initiatives to address the specific needs of older cancer patients in India. The study emphasizes the importance of early detection, personalized treatment plans, and comprehensive support services to improve outcomes and quality of life for this growing demographic.
Key Findings:
- Over 36% of cancer patients in India are aged 60 and above.
- Male patients are significantly more prevalent in the older age bracket.
- Head and neck cancers are the most common malignancies among elderly patients.
- Breast, genitourinary, lung, and hepatopancreaticobiliary cancers are also prevalent.
- The proportion of older cancer patients varies significantly across different regions of India.
This study provides valuable insights into the demographic patterns of cancer in older Indian adults, highlighting the need for focused interventions and research to improve their care.
Disclaimer: This news article is based on the information provided from the linked study. The information provided in this article should not be considered medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your health or treatment. The results of this study may not be generalized to every individual, and further research is needed to fully understand the complexities of cancer in older Indian adults.(https://www.amrita.edu/publication/prevalence-and-types-of-cancer-in-older-indians-a-multicentric-observational-study-across-17-institutions-in-india/)
