Submit to Special Issue Submit Abstract to Special Issue Review for Current Oncology Propose a Special Issue

Journal Menu

Journal Browser

Advances in Geriatric Oncology: Toward Optimized Cancer Care

Print Special Issue Flyer
Special Issue Editors
Special Issue Information
Keywords
Benefits of Publishing in a Special Issue
Published Papers

A special issue of Current Oncology (ISSN 1718-7729). This special issue belongs to the section "Palliative and Supportive Care".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: 31 December 2026 | Viewed by 12079

Share This Special Issue

Special Issue Editor

Prof. Dr. Michael J. Lind

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor

Hull York Medical School, University of Hull, Hull HU6 7RU, UK
Interests: oncogeriatrics; thoracic oncology; mesothelioma

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

The global numbers of elderly cancer patients are dramatically increasing. This presents a huge challenge to health care professionals in terms of managing older patients with multiple age-related comorbidities. This often biases clinicians against treating elderly cancer patients. This has led several centres to embed oncogeriatric services in their oncology service. Further solutions include prehabilitation strategies, including exercise to improve fitness for systemic anticancer therapy. Today, many anticancer therapies are much more effective, and elderly patients can expect to live longer. This creates an additional strain on the system, in that these patients need a more protracted follow-up.

It is also important to realise the under-representation of elderly patients in clinical trials. This can cause problems with the implementation of trial findings in elderly cancer patients, as was the case with immune checkpoint inhibitors.

In this Special Issue, original research articles and reviews in the area of Geriatric Oncology are welcome.

I look forward to receiving your contributions.

Prof. Dr. Michael J. Lind
Guest Editor

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 250 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for assessment.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Current Oncology is an international peer-reviewed open access monthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2200 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

oncogeriatrics
clinical trials
prehabilitation
elderly cancer patients
cancer care

Benefits of Publishing in a Special Issue

Ease of navigation: Grouping papers by topic helps scholars navigate broad scope journals more efficiently.
Greater discoverability: Special Issues support the reach and impact of scientific research. Articles in Special Issues are more discoverable and cited more frequently.
Expansion of research network: Special Issues facilitate connections among authors, fostering scientific collaborations.
External promotion: Articles in Special Issues are often promoted through the journal's social media, increasing their visibility.
Reprint: MDPI Books provides the opportunity to republish successful Special Issues in book format, both online and in print.

Further information on MDPI's Special Issue policies can be found here.

Published Papers (7 papers)

Download All Papers

Order results

Result details

Show export options Show export options

Select all

Export citation of selected articles as:

Research

17 pages, 704 KB

Open AccessArticle

Preoperative Cognitive Function and Physical Frailty Predict Decision Satisfaction and Postoperative Adherence in Older Gynecologic Oncology Patients: A Prospective Observational Study

by Celal Akdemir, Merve Konal, Mücahit Furkan Balcı, Gülin Özuyar Şimşek, Zeliha Öcal, Fatih Yıldırım, Zeynep Gül Dağlar, Serkan Karaoğlu and Muzaffer Sancı

Curr. Oncol. 2026, 33(2), 118; https://doi.org/10.3390/curroncol33020118 - 17 Feb 2026

Viewed by 688

Abstract

With increasing life expectancy, a growing proportion of patients undergoing surgery for gynecologic cancers are older adults, underscoring the need for reliable predictors of postoperative recovery and patient engagement. Cognitive function and physical frailty are recognized determinants of surgical outcomes, yet their relative impact on patient centered outcomes remains insufficiently explored. This prospective observational study included 68 women aged 65 years and older who underwent abdominal surgery for gynecologic malignancies. Preoperative cognitive function was assessed using the Montreal Cognitive Assessment, and physical frailty was evaluated with the Clinical Frailty Scale. Postoperative outcomes included early recovery parameters, complications, surgical decision satisfaction, and home-based adherence. Higher cognitive scores were associated with earlier mobilization, shorter hospital stay, better postoperative adherence, and greater decision satisfaction, whereas higher frailty scores were associated with delayed recovery and increased complication risk. In regression analyses, preoperative cognitive function was significantly associated with both postoperative adherence and surgical decision satisfaction, whereas physical frailty was not. These findings indicate that preoperative cognitive screening may have predictive value for patient centered recovery behaviors and decision satisfaction in this setting; however, the prediction estimates should be considered exploratory and warrant validation in larger, multicenter cohorts. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Geriatric Oncology: Toward Optimized Cancer Care)

► Show Figures

Graphical abstract

11 pages, 561 KB

Open AccessArticle

Brain Tumor Care in Relation to Patient Age—An Observational Study Between Years 2016 and 2022 in a Nationwide Cohort in Germany

by Frederic Bold, Gerardo Rico Gonzalez, Rüdiger Gerlach, Oliver Heese, Steffen K. Rosahl, Michael Stoffel, Juraj Kukolja, Frederick Palm, Emilia Machado Musri, Ali Allam, Ralf Kuhlen, Julius Dengler, Sven Hohenstein, Andreas Bollmann and Nora F. Dengler

Curr. Oncol. 2026, 33(2), 104; https://doi.org/10.3390/curroncol33020104 - 5 Feb 2026

Viewed by 722

Abstract

As societies continue to age, brain tumors increasingly affect older patients. Still, large-scale evidence on whether the relationship between age and brain tumor has been evolving over time is scarce. We examined longitudinal trends among different age groups of patients with brain tumors at 78 German hospitals. Two time periods were compared as follows: phase 1 (1 January 2016–31 December 2019; pre-pandemic) and phase 2 (1 January 2020–31 December 2022; pandemic). Patients were categorized as non-elderly (<65 years) or elderly (≥65 years), and according to 10-year age brackets. The clinical condition was quantified using the Elixhauser Comorbidity Index (ECI) and the Hospital Frailty Risk Score (HFRS). Among the 20,005 patients included, changes in characteristics of non-elderly/elderly patients over time behaved similarly, with improvements in ECI (19.3 to 18.4/15.2 to 14.3; each p < 0.01) and HFRS (2.1 to 1.6/4.7 to 4.1; each p < 0.01), and increases in rates of brain tumor resection (26.1% to 31.8%/22.7% to 27.8%; each p < 0.01). Only patients aged 75–84 years did not follow any of those trends. Over the examined 7-year period, general trends in brain tumor care in elderly subjects resembled those observed in non-elderly patients, except for those aged 75–84 years. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Geriatric Oncology: Toward Optimized Cancer Care)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

13 pages, 236 KB

Open AccessArticle

Outcomes Following Colorectal Cancer Resection in Elderly Patients

by Richard Grainger, Tatiana S. Temperley, Hugo C. Temperley, Ben Creavin, Emily Harrold, Cillian Clancy, James O’Riordan, David Gallagher, Brian J. Mehigan, John Larkin, Charles Gillham, Dara Kavanagh, Paul H. McCormick and Michael E. Kelly

Curr. Oncol. 2025, 32(12), 652; https://doi.org/10.3390/curroncol32120652 - 21 Nov 2025

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1404

Abstract

Background: Colorectal cancer (CRC) mainly affects older adults, yet elderly patients are underrepresented in outcomes research. Accurate risk stratification tools, such as the Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI), are essential for guiding surgical decisions in this group. Methods: We conducted a retrospective review of patients aged 75 years or older who underwent colorectal cancer resection at a tertiary centre between January 2019 and September 2024. Clinical, pathological, and molecular data were analyzed. The primary outcome was a composite of major postoperative complications (Clavien–Dindo grade 3 or higher) or 30-day mortality, stratified by CCI (5 or higher vs. less than 5). Statistical tests included chi-square, Fisher’s exact, and Mann–Whitney U as appropriate. Results: The median age was 81 years (range 75–97), with 59.7% male. CCI ≥ 5 was observed in 24.6% (51/211). The primary composite outcome of major postoperative complications or 30-day mortality occurred in 15/51 (29.4%) patients with a CCI ≥ 5 compared to 19/160 (11.9%) with a CCI < 5 (p = 0.04). Major complications occurred in 18.5% (39/211) of cases, and the 30-day mortality rate was 3.3% (7/211). Laparoscopic resection was independently protective in multivariate analysis (adjusted OR 0.37, p = 0.048), while age ≥85 and emergency presentation were not statistically significant predictors. Conclusions: Colorectal resection in patients aged ≥75 is linked with acceptable morbidity and low short-term death rates. A CCI ≥ 5 significantly predicts adverse outcomes and should be included in preoperative assessments. Minimally invasive surgery seems advantageous and should be considered, when possible, to enhance results in this high-risk group. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Geriatric Oncology: Toward Optimized Cancer Care)

17 pages, 2034 KB

Open AccessArticle

Regional and Temporal Variation in Receipt of Gabapentinoid and SSRI/SNRI Therapy Among Older Cancer Survivors in the United States

by Amber Nguyen, Yong-Fang Kuo, Daoqi Gao and Mukaila Raji

Curr. Oncol. 2025, 32(10), 576; https://doi.org/10.3390/curroncol32100576 - 17 Oct 2025

Viewed by 1248

Abstract

Opioids and benzodiazepines (BZD) are commonly prescribed for older cancer survivors with co-occurring pain and anxiety. The prescribing rate of gabapentinoids (GABA), Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs), and Serotonin-Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors (SNRIs) in the general population has increased as opioid/BZD alternatives, but little is known on temporal/regional trends in use of these alternatives among older cancer survivors. A retrospective cohort study using SEER-Medicare data was conducted. Patients aged ≥ 66 years, diagnosed with breast, colorectal, prostate, or lung cancer as their first cancer diagnosis any time from 2000 to 2015 and who were alive more than 5 years after cancer diagnosis, were eligible for inclusion. Temporal trends varied by region (p < 0.0001) and opioid-naïve status (p < 0.0001). Compared to 2013, GABA and SNRI use increased, while BZD and opioid use decreased. All regions experienced declines in opioid use. From 2013 to 2018, all regions saw an increase in GABA use, with a decline in 2020. GABA prescriptions increased more in opioid-naïve groups compared to non-opioid-naïve patients. The yearly trends in GABA and SSRI/SNRI use varied by region among older cancer survivors. Clinical practice variation suggests needs for further research on improving consistency and quality of cancer care. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Geriatric Oncology: Toward Optimized Cancer Care)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

13 pages, 421 KB

Open AccessArticle

Implementation and Outcomes of a Perioperative Geriatrics Strategy, PRIME, for Older Adults Undergoing Gastrointestinal Cancer Surgery

by Gabriella Jacob, Eric K. C. Wong, Rachel Fuh, Tyler R. Chesney and Camilla L. Wong

Curr. Oncol. 2025, 32(9), 494; https://doi.org/10.3390/curroncol32090494 - 3 Sep 2025

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2101

Abstract

Introduction: The number of older adults living with frailty undergoing gastrointestinal cancer surgery is increasing. To address the unique needs of the population, a whole pathway perioperative geriatrics strategy—PRIME—was developed to integrate geriatric principles into surgical care. The objective of this study was to evaluate the implementation of PRIME using validated structural, process, and outcome quality indicators. Materials and Methods: This retrospective cohort study included 106 consecutive patients aged 70 years and older who underwent gastrointestinal surgery for cancer or pre-cancerous lesions at a single institution between 1 July 2020 and 5 October 2023. The whole pathway perioperative geriatrics strategy, PRIME, includes preoperative comprehensive geriatric assessment (CGA), collaborative care between surgery, geriatrics, and anesthesia, and post-operative co-management. Implementation was evaluated using validated structural, process, and outcome quality indicators. Results: Most structural indicators (five of eight) were implemented. In terms of process indicators, 96.2% (n = 102) received CGA prior to or within 24 h of admission. Adherence to screening was high: 97.2% for dementia, 96.2% for functional status, and 95.3% for frailty. The median number interventions resulting from CGA was 17 (IQR 14–20). Serious complication, delirium, and functional decline occurred in 19.8%, 27.1%, and 19.8%, respectively. Conclusions: Implementation of a perioperative geriatrics strategy for older adults undergoing gastrointestinal cancer/pre-cancer lesion surgery is feasible, with high adherence to structural and process quality indicators. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Geriatric Oncology: Toward Optimized Cancer Care)

► Show Figures

Graphical abstract

21 pages, 984 KB

Open AccessArticle

Exploring Determinants of Compassionate Cancer Care in Older Adults Using Fuzzy Cognitive Mapping

by Dominique Tremblay, Chiara Russo, Catherine Terret, Catherine Prady, Sonia Joannette, Sylvie Lessard, Susan Usher, Émilie Pretet-Flamand, Christelle Galvez, Élisa Gélinas-Phaneuf, Julien Terrier and Nathalie Moreau

Curr. Oncol. 2025, 32(8), 465; https://doi.org/10.3390/curroncol32080465 - 16 Aug 2025

Viewed by 1425

Abstract

The growing number of older adults with cancer confront practical and organizational limitations that hinder their ability to obtain care that is adapted to their health status, needs, expectations, and life choices. The integration into practice of evidence-based and institutional recommendations for a geriatric approach and person-centered high-quality care remains incomplete. This study uses an action research design to explore stakeholders’ perspectives of the challenges involved in translating the established care priorities into a compassionate geriatric approach in oncology and identify promising pathways to improvement. Fifty-three stakeholders participated in focus groups to create cognitive maps representing perceived relationships between concepts related to compassionate care of older adults with cancer. Combining maps results in a single model constructed in Mental Modeler software to weigh relationships and calculate concept centrality (importance in the model). The model represents stakeholders’ collective perspective of the determinants of compassionate care that need to be addressed at different decision-making levels. The results reveal pathways to improvement at systemic, organizational, practice, and societal levels. These include connecting policies on ageing and national cancer programs, addressing fragmented care through interdisciplinary teamwork, promoting person-centered care, cultivating relational proximity, and combatting ageism. Translating evidence-based practices and priority orientations into compassionate care rests on collective capacities across multiple providers to address the whole person and their unique trajectory. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Geriatric Oncology: Toward Optimized Cancer Care)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

15 pages, 583 KB

Open AccessArticle

Implementation of a Multi-Disciplinary Geriatric Oncology Clinic in Toronto, Canada

by Ines B. Menjak, Khloe Campos, Mark Pasetka, Arlene Budden, Elaine Curle, Leslie Gibson, Ewa Szumacher and Rajin Mehta

Curr. Oncol. 2025, 32(2), 89; https://doi.org/10.3390/curroncol32020089 - 6 Feb 2025

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2119

Abstract

Older adults with cancer tend to face more complex health needs than their younger counterparts. Patients > 65 years of age are recommended for comprehensive geriatric assessment (CGA) to capture and address age-related vulnerabilities. Access to geriatrics services is limited, and our baseline audit of geriatric referrals in 2019 from the cancer program revealed that only 30% of patients referred received a CGA. The aim of this study was to assess the implementation of a geriatric oncology (GO) clinic that employs CGA and determine patient outcomes. We conducted a retrospective cohort study at a single institution. Data collection included baseline characteristics, GO clinic findings and characteristics, recommendations/referrals, and emergency room (ER) visits/hospitalizations within 6 months of CGA. Descriptive statistics were used for analysis. A total of 100 patients were included, with a median (range) age of 80 (63–97) years; 70% were female, and the most common cancer type was breast (31%). Through the GO clinic, patients were seen in a timely manner, with a median of 3 weeks, compared to our historical baseline of 11 weeks. Cognitive decline (32%) and pre-treatment CGA (22%) were the most common reasons for referral, and the most common new diagnosis was cognitive impairment (65%). For pre-treatment CGA, 16 (48%) patients were deemed suitable for treatment and 10 (30%) were recommended for modified treatment; 34 (94%) referring physicians followed the recommendation. In addition, most (68%) patients received an allied health referral. One third of patients visited the ER and 30 (30%) patients were hospitalized. Overall, the GO clinic resulted in greater access to CGA in a timely manner, enhanced access to allied health, and assisted in treatment decision-making. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Geriatric Oncology: Toward Optimized Cancer Care)

► Show Figures

Journal Menu

Journal Browser

Advances in Geriatric Oncology: Toward Optimized Cancer Care

Share This Special Issue

Special Issue Editor

Special Issue Information

Keywords

Benefits of Publishing in a Special Issue

Published Papers (7 papers)

Research

Further Information

Guidelines

MDPI Initiatives

Follow MDPI