Study Highlights Challenges for Older Breast Cancer Survivors
A new study sheds light on the unique hurdles older women face after breast cancer treatment, including persistent symptoms and declines in health, and emphasizes the need for personalized care.
Understanding the Unique Challenges
**Claire Morton**, MD, and **Christina Ahn Minami**, MD, MS, from Brigham and Women’s Hospital, published research in Current Breast Cancer Reports focused on older breast cancer survivors. The research identifies difficulties experienced by older women who were diagnosed later in life or who have aged into survivorship.
The study explored how factors like comorbidities, ongoing symptoms, and age-related declines shape the long-term experiences of older breast cancer survivors. Researchers investigated the effects of these factors on the quality of life for these patients. Their goal was to identify how these challenges differed from those experienced by younger breast cancer survivors, aiming to improve care strategies for older patients.
Key Findings of the Study
Researchers reviewed published studies, clinical trials, and meta-analyses. Older adults recently diagnosed with breast cancer showed higher levels of fatigue, insomnia, and cognitive decline compared to younger patients. While older patients are less likely to receive chemotherapy, radiation, or reconstruction, the reasons for this remain unclear.
The study also revealed that aging through breast cancer treatment correlated with an increased risk of falls, fractures, functional decline, and cognitive issues. Long-term survivors frequently experience persistent fatigue and chronic pain. In a study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association, it was found that more than 50% of cancer survivors experience chronic pain. (Source)
Implications and Future Steps
“Older adult women who are recently diagnosed with breast cancer may benefit from geriatric assessments,” the authors said. This assessment helps to identify age-related conditions and determine if geriatric-specific support can optimize health before treatment starts.
“We aim to improve how care is planned and delivered by making it more personalized, supportive and responsive to the evolving needs of older survivors.”
—**Claire Morton**, MD
The team intends to use large datasets to pinpoint high-risk patients and continue to develop geriatric oncology programs. They also plan to apply qualitative research to incorporate long-term survivorship data into early discussions between physicians and patients.
