Ageism in Cancer Care

ObjectiveTo provide an overview of ageism, a review of its influence in cancer, and to outline implications for nursing and interdisciplinary practice.Data SourcesResearch articles, research and clinical reviews, theoretical works, and clinical expertise.ConclusionAgeism may be negative, self-stereotyping, positive, or beneficent. Ageism in cancer care results in age-based disparities in screening and detection, where older adults may have some advantage over younger adults as they have more frequent health care encounters through clinical trials enrollment and treatment.Implications for Nursing PracticeNurses are well-positioned to identify ageism, to confront and correct it in clinical practice, and to conduct investigations and create curricula that combat ageism and redress age-based disparities.