Main priorities for the development of geriatric oncology: A worldwide expert perspective

Objective: The world population is aging rapidly, thanks to improvements in nutrition, sanitation, disease treatment and prevention (notably for infectious diseases), and better economic conditions. As aging is the main risk factor for cancer, its incidence follows suit. This represents a worldwide challenge and addressing it correctly will require a vast international effort and clear priorities.Methods: The International Society of Geriatric Oncology (SIOG), a multidisciplinary society of experts in the field, decided to identify those priorities. The SIOG National Representatives (NRs) were asked first to identify the 10 highest priorities to address on a worldwide scale. Then, the NRs were asked to identify how these priorities were/could be implemented in their country. A writing committee assembled and edited the results.Results: We identified 3 key areas of priority: education, clinical practice, and research. Education should be targeted at both the professional and the population levels. In clinical practice, pilot models of multidisciplinary collaboration should be expanded first to key reference centers, and a 2-step approach to screening and evaluation should be used to optimize resource use. In research, several strategies can render trials more relevant for older patients. These priorities are fully detailed in a monograph1 that can be viewed online at www.siog.org or ordered from siog@genolier.net. This article explores the rationale and general academic and public health implications of these priorities.Conclusions: These priorities represent an expert consensus with potential to guide education, clinical practice, and research to improve the care of older cancer patients throughout the world.