Abstract

Despite the widespread belief that cancer in older adults follows a slower or more “benign” course, evidence demonstrates that aging-related biological changes often promote tumorigenesis and complicate progression. Elderly patients frequently present with advanced-stage malignancies, multimorbidity, and decreased physiological reserve, all of which influence therapeutic decision-making and outcomes.

Recent advances in targeted therapies, monoclonal antibodies, immune checkpoint inhibitors, and cancer vaccines have expanded options for geriatric populations. However, efficacy and tolerability must be balanced against age-specific toxicities and frailties. This review examines epidemiology, pathophysiology, tumor evolution, clinical outcomes, and the impact of novel biotherapies in oncogeriatric care, proposing future strategies for personalized, multidisciplinary managemen.^2–6

Keywords

oncogeriatric care, older adults, Aging and Cancer, mitochondrial dysfunction, tumor control, geriatric cohorts, chemotherapy