Geriatric oncology is a vital medical subspecialty dedicated to diagnosing and treating cancer in individuals aged 65 and older, a demographic that accounts for 60% of new cancer diagnoses and 70% of cancer deaths. This field emerged in the 1980s, with pioneers like Dr. B.J. Kennedy and Lodovico Balducci, who co-edited the first major textbook "Geriatric Oncology" in 1982, championing its development. The American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) has been instrumental in promoting research and training since the late 1980s.
Older cancer patients present unique challenges, including lower tolerance for treatments, multiple co-existing health conditions, and functional limitations, which often lead to their exclusion from traditional clinical trials. Consequently, specialized care that incorporates these needs is crucial. A comprehensive geriatric assessment helps address the complex medical histories, numerous medications, and social situations unique to this rapidly growing patient population.