Cancer Among Elderly People: Know From A Doctor On What Makes Age A Risk Factor

According to a doctor, understanding the link between aging and cancer is crucial for developing prevention strategies and to improve the quality of life for elderly people.

Cancer can affect people of all age groups, but for the elderly population, it is a big risk factor owing to a combination of biology, environment, and lifestyle. Let us learn more about each of these factors.

Biological Factors

According to Dr Nikhil S Ghadyalpatil, director, medical oncology, senior consultant medical oncologist and hemato-oncologist at Yashoda Hospitals Hyderabad, when it comes to cancer in the elderly population, the following biological factors are at play:

1. Accumulation of genetic mutations: This happens over time, when the cells in the body accumulate genetic mutations. It is true that the body has mechanisms in place to repair the DNA and regulate cell growth, but they become less effective with age, leading to a higher likelihood of cancerous mutations.
2. Decreased immune function: Similarly, the immune system weakens with age, making it less effective at detecting and destroying cancerous cells. This increases susceptibility to cancer.
3. Cellular senescence: When cells age, they enter a state called 'senescence', where they no longer divide but still affect surrounding cells. Senescent cells can create an environment that promotes cancer growth through the release of 'pro-inflammatory' factors.

Environmental And Lifestyle Factors

The doctor states that environmental and lifestyle factors that increase the risk of cancer in the elderly are as follows:

• Long-term exposure to carcinogens: Over a lifetime, individuals are exposed to various carcinogens like tobacco smoke, radiation, chemicals, and UV light. It is this cumulative effect that increases the risk of cancer.
• Chronic inflammation: Persistent inflammation, which is common in many age-related diseases, can contribute to the development of cancer. It causes DNA damage and promotes an environment that supports the growth of tumors.

What Kind Of Cancers Are Commonly Seen In The Elderly?

There are mainly five cancers that affect elderly people, for which they must be careful:

1. Breast cancer: Its risk increases with age, especially after menopause due to changes in hormone levels.
2. Prostate cancer: It is the most common cancer in older men, often diagnosed when they cross 65 years.
3. Colorectal cancer: Its risk increases with age, with most cases occurring in people over 50 years.
4. Lung cancer: The risk of this cancer increases with age, particularly among those with a history of smoking.
5. Skin cancer: Prolonged exposure to UV radiation over a lifetime can increase the risk of this cancer, making it more common in older adults.

Prevention And Management Of Cancers

Dr Nikhil suggests the following for cancer prevention and treatment among elderly people:

• Regular screening: Early detection through regular screenings can significantly improve treatment outcomes for older adults.
• Healthy lifestyle: Maintaining a healthy diet, being physically active, and avoiding tobacco and excessive alcohol intake can reduce cancer risk.
• Vaccinations: Vaccines like HPV can prevent certain cancers, even in older adults.
• Management of chronic conditions: It is important to properly manage chronic diseases like diabetes and hypertension, so as to improve overall health and reduce cancer risk.
• Genetic counselling: For those who have a family history of cancer, genetic counselling and testing can help identify risks and provide preventive measures.