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Epidemiology of Cancer in Older Adults: A Systematic Review

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Abstract

Purpose of Review

What are the prevalence, incidence and mortality rates of cancer among individuals aged 60 or older on a national, regional, and global scale? What factors affect differences in cancer survival between older and younger adults?

Recent Findings

The epidemiological literature on cancer in older adults, particularly in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) and that focusing on the oldest adults, is expanding. These studies consistently show increasing global cancer incidence rates in older populations. Recent research also highlights a widening survival gap between middle-aged and older adults, with the stage at diagnosis being the primary driver.

Summary

More research is needed to describe the cancer burden in older adults, especially focusing on the oldest population and LMICs, to better understand global healthcare challenges. Additionally, further exploring patient-related, clinical, and tumour-related factors which drive age-related survival differences could improve cancer outcomes in older adults.

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Acknowledgements

We thank Dr Melody Schiaffino for hel** with screening titles and abstracts, Dr India Pinker for hel** with screening and editing the manuscript and Gladys Langue for editing the manuscript.

Funding

SP is supported by the Luxembourg National Research Fund (FNR), Project n°16731054.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Ageing, Cancer, and Disparities Research Unit, Department of Precision Health, Luxembourg Institute of Health, 1 A-B, Rue Thomas Edison, 1445, Strassen, Luxembourg

    Sophie Pilleron

  2. Epidemiology, Biostatistics and Prevention Institute, University of Zurich, Hirschengraben 84, CH-8001, Zurich, Switzerland

    Esther Bastiaannet

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SP and EB wrote the protocol and selected articles. SP wrote the main manuscript, and prepared tables and figures. All authors reviewed the manuscript.

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Correspondence to Sophie Pilleron.

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Pilleron, S., Bastiaannet, E. Epidemiology of Cancer in Older Adults: A Systematic Review. Curr Oncol Rep (2024). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11912-024-01567-w

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