Colon Cancer in Older Adults: A Primer for Geriatricians

Abstract

Colon cancer is one of the most common malignancies affecting older adults. Studies suggest that older adults are less likely to receive standard treatments, such as curative surgery or chemotherapy, compared to their younger counterparts, despite evidence suggesting that fit older adults derive equal benefit. The patient’s overall health, life expectancy from non-cancer conditions, and personal preferences are important considerations in decisions with regard to colon cancer screening and management of early-stage or metastatic disease. Geriatricians can help oncologists better understand an older adult’s overall health and life expectancy from a non-cancer point of view and can help elucidate patient goals of care, advocating for screening and chemotherapy in those who are healthy enough, and helping to prioritize goals of care when patients have other life-limiting illnesses that may preclude cancer treatment. This manuscript will attempt to provide practicing geriatricians with evidence-based data regarding the management of colon cancer in older adults.