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Gul S, Tepetam H, Alomari O, Çolpan Öksüz D, Turhal SN, Öner Dinçbaş F. A Survey of the Turkish Oncology Group (TOG): Are the Oncologists Trained for Decision Making on Geriatric Cancer Patients? Cureus 2024; 16:e64533. [PMID: 39139354 PMCID: PMC11321900 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.64533] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/14/2024] [Indexed: 08/15/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Most newly diagnosed cancers occur in older adults, and it is important to understand a patient's underlying health status when making treatment decisions. Therefore, clinicians need enhanced competencies and skills to effectively care for this population. However, most clinicians receive minimal to no training in geriatrics. This study aims to evaluate the education and training levels in geriatric oncology among Turkish physicians and to understand the factors influencing oncologists' treatment decisions for geriatric cancer patients. MATERIALS AND METHODS A 24-question survey was prepared to obtain the participating physicians' demographic information, as well as to inquire whether they had received training during their medical education and residency on how to approach geriatric patients, in what process(es) they had received the training, whether they were currently treating geriatric patients, what they focused on when evaluating geriatric patients, and what they thought about their training and preparedness for approaching geriatric patients. The questionnaire was sent online to radiation and medical oncologists, and the link was published on the Turkish Society of Radiation Oncology and the Turkish Society of Medical Oncology websites. RESULTS Two hundred and three physicians participated in the survey, 131 of whom were women. The median age was 41.66 years (24-69 years). One hundred and fifty-six physicians (76.1%) received specialty education at the university hospital. One hundred and three of them were radiation oncologists, and 80 were medical oncologists. Of the physicians, 19.7% received education in geriatrics before they specialized in oncology, and 6.9% said they were educated after specialization. When determining suitability for radiotherapy, 10.7% of radiation oncologists said that they use geriatric assessment tools. Similarly, 13.8% of medical oncologists claimed that they used geriatric assessment tools in determining suitability for chemotherapy. Of the physicians, 177 (86.3%) thought that geriatric evaluation could independently increase patient survival rate. Furthermore, patient cognitive status, functional status, physiological age, polypharmacy, geriatric specialist recommendations, inpatient services, patient relatives, and similar factors were found to be useful in treatment decisions. Finally, 92.7% of the participants believed that receiving education would have changed their perspectives on treating geriatric patients. CONCLUSION Our results provide perspectives on developing knowledge on and skills in geriatric training among oncologists. Learning new approaches is necessary for oncologists who more frequently confront geriatric patients with cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sule Gul
- Radiation Oncology, Health Sciences University, Dr. Lutfi Kirdar Kartal Training and Research Hospital, Istanbul, TUR
| | - Huseyin Tepetam
- Radiation Oncology, Health Sciences University, Dr. Lutfi Kirdar Kartal Training and Research Hospital, Istanbul, TUR
| | - Omar Alomari
- Medicine and Surgery, Hamidiye International Faculty of Medicine, University of Health Sciences, Istanbul, TUR
| | - Didem Çolpan Öksüz
- Radiation Oncology, Medical Faculty, Istanbul University-Cerrahpasa, Istanbul, TUR
| | - Serdar N Turhal
- Internal Medicine, Department of Medical Oncology, Anatolian Health Center, Istanbul, TUR
| | - Fazilet Öner Dinçbaş
- Radiation Oncology, Medical Faculty, Istanbul University-Cerrahpaşa, Istanbul, TUR
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Arora SP, Puts M. Lessons learned from organizing International Society of Geriatric Oncology (SIOG) geriatric assessment workshops. J Geriatr Oncol 2023; 14:101528. [PMID: 37230931 PMCID: PMC11147499 DOI: 10.1016/j.jgo.2023.101528] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2023] [Accepted: 05/11/2023] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Sukeshi Patel Arora
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, Mays Cancer Center, University of Texas Health San Antonio, 7979 Wurzbach Rd., MC 8232, San Antonio, TX 78229, USA.
| | - Martine Puts
- Lawrence S. Bloomberg Faculty of Nursing, University of Toronto, 155 College street suite 130, Toronto M5P1T8, ON, Canada.
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Ong WL, Byrne A, Chelvarajah R, Chong C, Gallo J, Kain M, Khong J, O'Reilly E, Udovicich C, Weeransinghe C, Zhong Hu T, Bece A. Survey of brachytherapy training experience among radiation oncology trainees and fellows in the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Radiologists (RANZCR). J Med Imaging Radiat Oncol 2022; 66:980-992. [PMID: 35546425 PMCID: PMC9790377 DOI: 10.1111/1754-9485.13424] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2021] [Accepted: 04/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION To evaluate brachytherapy training experience among trainees and fellows trained through the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Radiologists (RANZCR). METHODS All current trainees and fellows (who obtained fellowship from 2015 onwards) were sent an online anonymous questionnaire on various aspects of brachytherapy training, including number of cases observed/ performed, opinions on brachytherapy assessment during training, barriers to brachytherapy training and future role of brachytherapy. RESULTS The overall survey response rate was 24% (40/161 trainees, 30/126 fellows). Of the 70 respondents, 50 (71%), 38 (54%) and 43 (61%) reported to have received formal brachytherapy teaching from radiation oncologists, radiation therapists and medical physicists respectively. Most respondents had exposure to gynaecology brachytherapy - two-thirds of trainees and all fellows have performed at least one gynaecology brachytherapy procedure. Prostate brachytherapy exposure was more limited - by the end of training, 27% and 13% of fellows did not have exposure to LDR and HDR prostate brachytherapy. More than two-thirds indicated there should be a minimum number of brachytherapy case requirements during training, and half indicated that trainees should be involved in ≥6 gynaecology brachytherapy procedures. Barriers affecting training include lack of caseload (70%) and perceived decreasing role of brachytherapy (66%). Forty-three percent of respondents were concerned about the decline in brachytherapy utilisation. CONCLUSION This is the first survey on brachytherapy training experience among RANZCR trainees and fellows. It highlighted limited brachytherapy exposure during RANZCR training, and the need to revisit brachytherapy training requirement in the current training programme, along with long-term brachytherapy workforce planning.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wee Loon Ong
- Alfred Health Radiation OncologyMelbourneVictoriaAustralia,Central Clinical SchoolMonash UniversityMelbourneVictoriaAustralia
| | - Adam Byrne
- Department of Radiation OncologyRoyal Adelaide HospitalAdelaideSouth AustraliaAustralia
| | | | - Caris Chong
- Department of Radiation OncologyGenesis Cancer CarePerthWAAustralia,Department of Radiation OncologyFiona Stanley HospitalPerthWestern AustraliaAustralia
| | - James Gallo
- Royal Brisbane and Women's HospitalHerstonQueenslandAustralia,University of QueenslandSt LuciaQueenslandAustralia
| | - Mollie Kain
- Regional Cancer and Blood ServiceAuckland City HospitalAucklandNew Zealand
| | - Jeremy Khong
- Department of Radiation OncologyRoyal Adelaide HospitalAdelaideSouth AustraliaAustralia
| | - Eileen O'Reilly
- Regional Cancer and Blood ServiceAuckland City HospitalAucklandNew Zealand
| | - Cristian Udovicich
- Peter MacCallum Cancer CentreMelbourneVictoriaAustralia,Sir Peter MacCallum Department of OncologyUniversity of MelbourneMelbourneVictoriaAustralia
| | - Chamitha Weeransinghe
- Chris O'Brien Life House and Royal Prince Alfred HospitalCamperdownNew South WalesAustralia
| | - Ta‐chi Zhong Hu
- Liverpool Cancer Therapy CentreLiverpoolNew South WalesAustralia,St George Cancer Care CentreKogarahNew South WalesAustralia
| | - Andrej Bece
- St George Cancer Care CentreKogarahNew South WalesAustralia
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Morris L, O'Donovan A, Hashmi A, Agar M. Older adults and the unique role of the radiation therapist: Future directions for improving geriatric oncology training and education. Tech Innov Patient Support Radiat Oncol 2022; 23:21-26. [PMID: 36059564 PMCID: PMC9434163 DOI: 10.1016/j.tipsro.2022.08.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2022] [Revised: 08/01/2022] [Accepted: 08/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
This article reviews the status quo of the available evidence and guidance for geriatric oncology clinical practice, training and education for radiation therapists worldwide. We explore the unique clinical role that radiation therapists play in the management of older adults undergoing radiation therapy. We define multiple clinical care points in which the radiation therapists role could potentially expand or specialise into geriatric screening, assessment and intervention to optimise the care of older adults. Current GO educational offerings and future directions to improve RTT knowledge and skills around caring for older adults are outlined.
There is widespread recognition that the provision of high quality, appropriate and equitable care to older adults with cancer is a growing challenge in oncology practice. Radiation therapy (RT) is an effective and localised treatment that represents an attractive curative or palliative option for many older adults, and radiation therapists (RTT) play an important role in the delivery, support and quality of care for people during RT. The need to develop an evidence-based, global approach to improving all radiation oncology (RO) professionals’ knowledge and clinical practice in geriatric oncology (GO) has been previously identified. This article specifically focusses on the status quo of GO clinical practice and education for RTT worldwide. We explore the unique clinical role that RTT play in the management of older adults with cancer and define multiple clinical care points in which RTT could potentially participate in geriatric screening, geriatric assessment and intervention to optimise the care of older adults, with a focus on dementia. Directions for future efforts to improve the knowledge and clinical skills of RTT in caring for older adults are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucinda Morris
- University of Technology Sydney (UTS), Faculty of Health, Improving Palliative, Aged and Chronic Care through Clinical Research and Translation (IMPACCT), Ultimo, NSW, Australia
- St George Cancer Care Centre, St George Hospital, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- Corresponding author at: University of Technology Sydney (UTS), Faculty of Health, Improving Palliative, Aged and Chronic Care through Clinical Research and Translation (IMPACCT), Ultimo, NSW, Australia.
| | - Anita O'Donovan
- Applied Radiation Therapy Trinity (ARTT), Discipline of Radiation Therapy, School of Medicine, Trinity St. James’s Cancer Institute, Trinity College, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Amira Hashmi
- Radiotherapy Department, The Christie NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, UK
| | - Meera Agar
- University of Technology Sydney (UTS), Faculty of Health, Improving Palliative, Aged and Chronic Care through Clinical Research and Translation (IMPACCT), Ultimo, NSW, Australia
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David V, Hsu T, Mithoowani S, Fraser G, Mian H. What do hematology residents know about caring for older adults with cancer? A National Survey of Canadian hematology residents' knowledge and interests. J Geriatr Oncol 2022; 13:1236-1240. [PMID: 36050270 DOI: 10.1016/j.jgo.2022.08.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2022] [Revised: 08/17/2022] [Accepted: 08/24/2022] [Indexed: 10/15/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION As the Canadian population ages, older adults comprise an increasing proportion of those diagnosed and treated for hematologic malignancies. A geriatric oncology curriculum has been recognized as a top priority in the care of older patients with cancer. It is not clear, however, whether hematology trainees receive training in geriatric oncology. We sought to understand residents' views and needs for a geriatric oncology curriculum during hematology residency in Canada. MATERIALS AND METHODS We conducted a cross-sectional needs assessment of hematology trainees enrolled in a Canadian residency or advanced fellowship training program within hematology. The survey, which was piloted with three non-hematology residents to ensure user-friendliness, used a combination of Likert scale, multiple-choice, and open-ended questions. The survey comprised three sections: (1) demographic data, (2) current state of geriatric oncology training (amount, content) and (3) attitudes towards learning about geriatric oncology and preferred curriculum components and identified needs. The survey was administered by the study team and distributed electronically to program directors in June 2020. The program directors were asked to forward the survey to trainees registered within their Division of Hematology. Data were analyzed descriptively. RESULTS Twenty-nine hematology residents participated (41.4% estimated response rate). Most respondents had not received geriatric oncology teaching (58.6%, n = 17) and have never been taught about geriatric oncology assessment tools (72.4%, n = 21) during hematology residency. Most respondents felt that their program should deliver a geriatric oncology curriculum (96.6%, n = 28). Respondents were most interested in learning about use of geriatric assessment tools for pre-treatment chemotherapy decision-making (86.2%, n = 25), prediction of chemotherapy toxicity (82.8%, n = 24), and to facilitate conversations regarding treatment initiation, continuation, or termination (79.3%, n = 23). DISCUSSION Our study highlights the paucity of geriatric oncology training in hematology residency training programs. Our results highlight both the need and interest for a future dedicated geriatric oncology curriculum integrated into hematology training and provide guidance about which topics are most valued by trainees.
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Affiliation(s)
- Victoria David
- Department of Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada.
| | - Tina Hsu
- Division of Medical Oncology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Siraj Mithoowani
- Department of Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Graeme Fraser
- Department of Oncology, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Hira Mian
- Department of Oncology, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
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Skelly A, O'Donovan A. Recognizing Frailty in Radiation Oncology Clinical Practice: Current Evidence and Future Directions. Semin Radiat Oncol 2022; 32:115-124. [DOI: 10.1016/j.semradonc.2021.11.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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Morris L, Turner S, Thiruthaneeswaran N, O'Donovan A, Simcock R, Cree A, Phillips J, Alibhai S, Puts M, Szumacher E, Lane H, Berger A, Agar M. An International Expert Delphi Consensus to Develop Dedicated Geriatric Radiation Oncology Curriculum Learning Outcomes. Int J Radiat Oncol Biol Phys 2022; 113:934-945. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijrobp.2022.04.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2022] [Revised: 04/21/2022] [Accepted: 04/22/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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Diplas BH, Santos PMG, Shahrokni A, Warner A, Iyengar P, Yang JT, Gomez DR, Palma DA, Tsai CJ. The Role of Ablative Radiotherapy in Older Adults With Limited Metastatic Disease. Semin Radiat Oncol 2022; 32:135-141. [PMID: 35307115 PMCID: PMC10898514 DOI: 10.1016/j.semradonc.2021.11.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
For patients with oligometastatic cancer, radiotherapy presents a promising avenue for achieving meaningful symptom relief and durable disease control. Data from recently published and ongoing randomized studies are helping to define the appropriate contexts for effective intervention with stereotactic ablative body radiotherapy (SABR) in the oligometastatic setting. Importantly, older adults represent a significant portion of patients with oligometastatic disease, yet often comprise a minority of patients in clinical trials. Moreover, older adults of the same chronologic age may have variable degrees of fitness and frailty. In this review, we highlight the specific challenges and considerations for the use of radiotherapy for older adults with oligometastatic disease-noting the importance of geriatric assessments in clinical decision-making about the appropriateness of SABR and other metastasis-directed therapies in this population. We then review data from existing trials, including a subset analysis of adverse events and survival estimates among older adults enrolled in the landmark SABR-COMET trial. Finally, we discuss future directions for research, including the need for focused clinical trials in older adult cohorts. Ultimately, a multidisciplinary approach is critical when carefully balancing the potential risks and benefits of this emerging treatment paradigm in the older adult population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bill H Diplas
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY
| | - Patricia Mae G Santos
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY
| | - Armin Shahrokni
- Department of Medicine, Geriatrics Service, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY
| | - Andrew Warner
- Department of Radiation Oncology, London Health Sciences Centre, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Puneeth Iyengar
- Department of Radiation Oncology, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX
| | - Jonathan T Yang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY
| | - Daniel R Gomez
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY
| | - David A Palma
- Department of Radiation Oncology, London Health Sciences Centre, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - C Jillian Tsai
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY.
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9
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International efforts in geriatric radiation oncology. J Geriatr Oncol 2021; 13:356-362. [PMID: 34782281 DOI: 10.1016/j.jgo.2021.11.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2021] [Revised: 10/12/2021] [Accepted: 11/02/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Geriatric assessment (GA) has been recommended to form part of treatment decision making for older adults with cancer. However despite consensus guidelines from various organizations, GA does not appear to be a part of routine practice in radiation oncology. The aim of the current study was to explore the implementation of GA in radiation oncology. MATERIALS AND METHODS This anonymous international survey investigated current use of GA in patients presenting for radiation therapy aged 65 years and over, in accordance with Checklist for Reporting Results of Internet E-Surveys (CHERRIES) guidelines. The survey was designed, using Qualitrics™, an online survey tool. It was distributed via SIOG, social media and radiation oncology professional organizations. Survey responses were analyzed using simple descriptive statistics. An additional analysis by creating a dichotomous variable based on awareness of major clinical practice guidelines and current use of GA. RESULTS Among 158 respondents, there was relatively low awareness of GA guidelines and low uptake of validated tools and processes. A minority of participants, only 16%, stated that they had a specialized geriatric oncology program in their institution. Approximately a third (34%) of respondents were unaware of any GA clinical practice guidelines. With regard to what way participants assess older patients differently to younger patients, 16% reported formally using specific validated tools, whereas 73% reported an informal assessment based on their own judgment, with 5% reporting no difference between younger and older patients. Regarding the use of validated screening tools for geriatric impairments, over half reported using none (57%). Regarding GA implementation, the main barriers highlighted included a lack of clinical/support staff, a lack of training, knowledge, understanding or experience about GA and a lack of time. DISCUSSION Relatively low awareness of guidelines and low uptake of formal GA tools and processes were found. The integration of GA principles into radiation oncology appears to be ad hoc and very much in its infancy. There is a clear need for increased interdisciplinary education and collaboration between the disciplines of radiation oncology and geriatric medicine.
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Dharmarajan KV, Presley CJ, Wyld L. Care Disparities Across the Health Care Continuum for Older Adults: Lessons From Multidisciplinary Perspectives. Am Soc Clin Oncol Educ Book 2021; 41:1-10. [PMID: 33956492 DOI: 10.1200/edbk_319841] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Older adults comprise a considerable proportion of patients with cancer in the world. Across multiple cancer types, cancer treatment outcomes among older age groups are often inferior to those among younger adults. Cancer care for older individuals is complicated by the need to adapt treatment to baseline health, fitness, and frailty, all of which vary widely within this age group. Rates of social deprivation and socioeconomic disparities are also higher in older adults, with many living on reduced incomes, further compounding health inequality. It is important to recognize and avoid undertreatment and overtreatment of cancer in this age group; however, simply addressing this problem by mandating standard treatment of all would lead to harms resulting from treatment toxicity and futility. However, there is little high-quality evidence on which to base these decisions, because older adults are poorly represented in clinical trials. Clinicians must recognize that simple extrapolation of outcomes from younger age cohorts may not be appropriate because of variance in disease stage and biology, variation in fitness and treatment tolerance, and reduced life expectancy. Older patients may also have different life goals and priorities, with a greater focus on quality of life and less on length of life at any cost. Health care professionals struggle with treatment of older adults with cancer, with high rates of variability in practice between and within countries. This suggests that better national and international recommendations that more fully address the needs of this special patient population are required and that primary research focused on the older age group is urgently required to inform these guidelines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kavita V Dharmarajan
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Brookdale Department of Geriatrics and Palliative Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY
| | - Carolyn J Presley
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, James Cancer Hospital & Solove Research Institute, The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, OH
| | - Lynda Wyld
- Department of Oncology and Metabolism, University of Sheffield Medical School, Sheffield, United Kingdom.,Doncaster and Bassetlaw Teaching Hospitals, National Health Service Foundation Trust, Doncaster, United Kingdom
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VanderWalde NA, Williams GR. Developing an electronic geriatric assessment to improve care of older adults with cancer receiving radiotherapy. Tech Innov Patient Support Radiat Oncol 2020; 16:24-29. [PMID: 33385071 PMCID: PMC7769846 DOI: 10.1016/j.tipsro.2020.09.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2020] [Revised: 09/04/2020] [Accepted: 09/09/2020] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Older adults make up a substantial proportion of patients diagnosed with cancer. Gaps in evidence of care for older adults with cancer leads to treatment heterogeneity and poor outcomes. Medical and Surgical Oncology clinics throughout the world are increasingly using Geriatric Assessment (GA) based approaches to treatment that are beginning to improve care through treatment decision-making communication, health-related quality of life outcomes, and reducing chemotherapy toxicities. Yet, GA based approaches are not often used in radiation oncology clinics. This manuscript aims to describe the ongoing development of an electronic patient-reported GA with real-time data interpretation and recommendation delivery to help increase the use of a personalized GA based approach to the care of older adults within radiation oncology clinics. Future studies demonstrating the utility and benefit of GA based approaches to help older adults undergoing radiotherapy for their cancers are still sorely needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noam A. VanderWalde
- Department of Radiation Oncology, West Cancer Center and Research Institute, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN, United States
| | - Grant R. Williams
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Medicine, University of Alabama Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, United States
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12
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O'Donovan A, Leech M. Personalised treatment for older adults with cancer: The role of frailty assessment. Tech Innov Patient Support Radiat Oncol 2020; 16:30-38. [PMID: 33102819 PMCID: PMC7568178 DOI: 10.1016/j.tipsro.2020.09.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2020] [Revised: 09/04/2020] [Accepted: 09/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
It is widely accepted in clinical practice that chronological age is a poor predictor of treatment tolerance and outcomes in older adults with cancer. Intrinsic vulnerability is more a function of underlying frailty, rather than chronological age. Frailty is a state of increased vulnerability to stressors, such as cancer and its treatment, which can lead to adverse health outcomes for patients. Capturing this heterogeneity in reserve capacity is the cornerstone of management in geriatricmedicine, but remains poorly understood or adopted in radiation oncology. A two-step approach, using a shorter screening tool, followed by full assessment for those who need it, is the mostresourceful way of implementing frailty assessment in radiotherapy departments. It is important for radiation oncology professionals to identify frailty and to use this information in multidisciplinary decision making in order to develop a personalised radiotherapy approach for the older person. There are many ways we can effectively use this information, such as considering treatment fractionation schedules that would limit the burden of travel for those with social frailty, or reviewing the range of modalities at our disposal, which might limit toxicity in the older person at high risk of deterioration during treatment. Frailty assessment is not carried out in many radiotherapy departments presently, but there are many international models to use as exemplars as to how it may be implemented in clinical practice. There are many opportunities for further research and role development in this field at the current time.
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13
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Owens GL, Sivalingam V, Abdelrahman M, Beirne JP, Blake D, Collins A, Davies R, Dilley J, Farquharson M, Frimpong D, Gomes N, Hawco S, Ilenkovan N, Jones E, Jones SEF, Khan T, Leung E, Otify M, Parnell L, Rimmer MP, Ryan N, Sanderson P, Stocker L, Wilkinson M, Wong S, Bharathan R, Wan YLL. Are trainees working in obstetrics and gynecology confident and competent in the care of frail gynecological oncology patients? Int J Gynecol Cancer 2020; 30:1959-1965. [PMID: 33046571 DOI: 10.1136/ijgc-2020-001834] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2020] [Revised: 09/22/2020] [Accepted: 09/25/2020] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Older patients undergoing cancer surgery are at increased risk of post-operative complications, prolonged hospital stay, and mortality. Identification of frailty can help predict patients at high risk of peri-operative complications and allow a collaborative, multidisciplinary team approach to their care. A survey was conducted to assess the confidence and knowledge of trainees in obstetrics and gynecology regarding identification and management of peri-operative issues encountered in frail gynecological oncology patients. METHODS A web-based survey was distributed via the Audit and Research in Gynaecological Oncology (ARGO) collaborative and UK Audit and Research Collaborative in Obstetrics and Gynaecology (UKARCOG) . The survey on the management of frail peri-operative patients was disseminated to doctors-in-training (trainees) working in obstetrics and gynecology in the United Kingdom (UK) and Ireland. Specialty (ST1-7), subspecialty, and general practice trainees, non-training grade doctors, and foundation year doctors currently working in obstetrics and gynecology were eligible. Consultants were excluded. Study data were collected using REDCAP software hosted at the University of Manchester. Responses were collected over a 6-week period between January and February 2020. RESULTS Of the 666 trainees who participated, 67% (425/666) reported inadequate training in peri-operative management of frail patients. Validated frailty assessment tools were used by only 9% (59/638) of trainees and less than 1% (4/613) were able to correctly identify all the diagnostic features of frailty. Common misconceptions included the use of chronological age and gender in frailty assessments. The majority of trainees (76.5%, 448/586) correctly answered a series of questions relating to mental capacity; however, only 6% (36/606) were able to correctly identify all three diagnostic features of delirium. A total of 87% (495/571) of trainees supported closer collaboration with geriatricians and a multidisciplinary approach. CONCLUSIONS Obstetrics and gynecology trainees reported inadequate training in the peri-operative care of frail gynecological oncology patients, and overwhelmingly favored input from geriatricians. Routine use of validated frailty assessment tools may aid diagnosis of frailty in the peri-operative setting. There is an unmet need for formal education in the management of frail surgical patients within the UK and Irish obstetrics and gynecology curriculum.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gemma Louise Owens
- Division of Cancer Sciences, School of Medicine, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK .,Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Sharoe Green Unit, Royal Preston Hospital, Lancashire Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Preston, UK
| | - Vanitha Sivalingam
- Division of Cancer Sciences, School of Medicine, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | | | - James P Beirne
- Patrick J Johnston Centre for Cancer Research, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, UK.,Northern Ireland Gynaecological Cancer Centre, Belfast Health and Social Care Trust, Belfast, UK
| | - Dominic Blake
- Northern Gynaecological Oncology Centre, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Gateshead Health NHS Foundation Trust, Gateshead, UK
| | - Anna Collins
- Leicester Cancer Research Centre, University of Leicester, Leicester, UK
| | - Rhianna Davies
- Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Addenbrooke's Hospital, Cambridge, UK
| | - James Dilley
- Gynaecological Oncology, Barts and The London NHS Trust, London, UK
| | | | - Diana Frimpong
- East Gynaecological Oncology Centre, Queen Elizabeth the Queen Mother Hospital, Margate, UK
| | - Nana Gomes
- Gynaecological Oncology, St George's Hospital, London, UK
| | - Sarah Hawco
- Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Ninewells Hospital, Dundee, UK
| | - Narthana Ilenkovan
- Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Sheffield Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Sheffield, UK
| | - Eleanor Jones
- Division of Cancer Sciences, School of Medicine, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | | | - Tabassum Khan
- Gynaecological Oncology, University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham, UK
| | - Elaine Leung
- Institute of Cancer and Genomic Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Mohamed Otify
- Gynaecological Oncology, Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, Leeds, UK
| | - Laura Parnell
- Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Royal Victoria Infirmary, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Michael P Rimmer
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, Queens Medical Research Institute, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Neil Ryan
- Academic Centre for Women's Health, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Peter Sanderson
- Gynaecological Oncology, Simpson Centre for Reproductive Health, Edinburgh, UK.,Centre for Inflammation Research, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Linden Stocker
- Academic Unit of Human Development and Health, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - Michael Wilkinson
- Gynaecological Oncology, Mater Misericordiae University Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Siewchee Wong
- Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Lincoln County Hospital, Lincoln, UK
| | - Rasiah Bharathan
- Gynaecological Oncology, University Hospitals of Leicester NHS Trust, Leicester, UK
| | - Yee-Loi Louise Wan
- Division of Cancer Sciences, School of Medicine, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
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14
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O'Donovan A, Morris L. Palliative Radiation Therapy in Older Adults With Cancer: Age-Related Considerations. Clin Oncol (R Coll Radiol) 2020; 32:766-774. [PMID: 32641244 DOI: 10.1016/j.clon.2020.06.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2020] [Revised: 05/20/2020] [Accepted: 06/15/2020] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
There are many additional considerations when treating older adults with cancer, especially in the context of palliative care. Currently, radiation therapy is underutilised in some countries and disease sites, but there is also evidence of unnecessary treatment in other contexts. Making rational treatment decisions for older adults necessitates an underlying appraisal of the person's physiological reserve capacity. This is termed 'frailty', and there is considerable heterogeneity in its clinical presentation, from patients who are relatively robust and suitable for standard treatment, to those who are frail and perhaps require a different approach. Frailty assessment also presents an important opportunity for intervention, when followed by Comprehensive Geriatric Assessment (CGA) in those who require it. Generally, a two-step approach, with a short initial screening, followed by CGA, is advocated in geriatric oncology guidelines. This has the potential to optimise care of the older person, and may also reverse or slow the development of frailty. It therefore has an important impact on the patient's quality of life, which is especially valued in the context of palliative care. Frailty assessment also allows a more informed discussion of treatment outcomes and a shared decision-making approach. With regards to the radiotherapy regimen itself, there are many adaptations that can better facilitate the older person, from positioning and immobilisation, to treatment prescriptions. Treatment courses should be as short as possible and take into account the older person's unique circumstances. The additional burden of travel to treatment for the patient, caregiver or family/support network should also be considered. Reducing treatments to single fractions may be appropriate, or alternatively, hypofractionated regimens. In order to enhance care and meet the demands of a rapidly ageing population, future radiation oncology professionals require education on the basic principles of geriatric medicine, as many aspects remain poorly understood.
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Affiliation(s)
- A O'Donovan
- Applied Radiation Therapy Trinity (ARTT) research group, Discipline of Radiation Therapy, School of Medicine, Trinity College, Dublin, Ireland.
| | - L Morris
- Department of Radiation Oncology, St George Hospital, Sydney, NSW 2217, Australia
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15
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Hsu T, Soto-Perez-de-Celis E, Burhenn PS, Korc-Grodzicki B, Wildes TM, Kanesvaran R, Maggiore RJ. Educating healthcare providers in geriatric oncology - A call to accelerate progress through identifying the gaps in knowledge. J Geriatr Oncol 2020; 11:1023-1027. [PMID: 31732446 PMCID: PMC9435653 DOI: 10.1016/j.jgo.2019.10.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2019] [Accepted: 10/25/2019] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
The majority of patients with cancer are over the age of 65. This patient population often has unique care needs. Thus, clinicians require additional competencies and skills to care for this population. Most clinicians, however, receive little to no training in geriatrics. There has been increasing recognition of the importance of learning about geriatric oncology. However, teaching of geriatric oncology principles is not standard or widespread. Here we highlight educational work and scholarship accomplished thus far in the field of geriatric oncology and identify gaps in knowledge that need to be addressed in order to help accelerate the development, implementation, integration, and dissemination of geriatric oncology curricula. These, in turn, will hopefully help improve the knowledge and skills of clinicians caring for older adults with cancer globally.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tina Hsu
- Division of Medical Oncology, Ottawa General Hospital, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Canada.
| | - Enrique Soto-Perez-de-Celis
- Department of Geriatrics, Instituto Nacional de Ciencias Medicas y Nutricion Salvador Zubiran, Mexico City, Mexico
| | | | - Beatriz Korc-Grodzicki
- Geriatrics Service, Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center; Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College, USA
| | - Tanya M Wildes
- Division of Medical Oncology, Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis, MO, USA
| | | | - Ronald J Maggiore
- Wilmot Cancer Institute, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY, USA; Divisions of Medical Oncology and Geriatrics, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY, USA
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16
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Flood J, O'Hanlon S, Gibb M, O'Donovan A. Caring for patients with dementia undergoing radiation therapy–A national audit. J Geriatr Oncol 2019; 10:811-818. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jgo.2019.04.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2018] [Revised: 03/22/2019] [Accepted: 04/03/2019] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
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17
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Lancia A, Ingrosso G, Carosi A, Bottero M, Cancelli A, Turturici I, Ponti E, Santoni R. Oligometastatic cancer in elderly patients: the "blitzkrieg" radiotherapy approach : SBRT in oligometastatic elderly patients. Aging Clin Exp Res 2019; 31:109-114. [PMID: 29594874 DOI: 10.1007/s40520-018-0937-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2017] [Accepted: 03/21/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
AIMS To retrospectively evaluate the outcome of stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) in the treatment of elderly patients affected by isolated body metastasis from different primitive tumors. METHODS 70 patients with isolated body metastasis were treated. Median age at diagnosis was 75 years (IQR 69-80). The most common SBRT fractionation scheme was 5 × 7 Gy (total dose 35 Gy). The primary endpoints were Local Control (LC) and Toxicity. Secondary endpoints were Overall Survival (OS) and Disease-Specific Survival (DSS). Response to radiotherapy was assessed according to RECIST criteria v1.1. Toxicity was registered according to Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events (CTCAE) v 4.0. We performed survival analysis with the Kaplan-Meier method. The correlation between time actuarial incidence and clinical parameters was studied. RESULTS Median follow-up was 26.5 months. 44 patients (62.8%) were alive at the time of analysis, while 22 (31.4%) died because of the disease. Local control at 2 and 3 years was 87%. The 2-year OS and DSS were 84 and 71%, respectively, while the 3-year values were 57 and 62%. PFS at 2 and 3 years was 41 and 25%, respectively. On univariate analysis, KPS ≥ 90 is statistically correlated with improved OS and DSS (p < 0.05). Acute toxicity of grade ≥ 2 occurred in 4 (5.7%) patients, while late toxicity ≥ 2 was recorded in 6 (8.6%) patients. CONCLUSIONS Ablative Radiotherapy represents a safe, effective, and minimally invasive treatment modality for elderly oligometastatic patients who are judged unfit for systemic therapy.
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18
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Role of the geriatrician, primary care practitioner, nurses, and collaboration with oncologists during cancer treatment delivery for older adults: A narrative review of the literature. J Geriatr Oncol 2018; 9:398-404. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jgo.2018.04.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2017] [Revised: 03/09/2018] [Accepted: 04/25/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
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19
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Geriatric assessment is superior to oncologists' clinical judgement in identifying frailty. Br J Cancer 2017; 117:470-477. [PMID: 28664916 PMCID: PMC5558687 DOI: 10.1038/bjc.2017.202] [Citation(s) in RCA: 92] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2016] [Revised: 05/21/2017] [Accepted: 06/07/2017] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Frailty is a syndrome associated with increased vulnerability and an important predictor of outcomes in older cancer patients. Systematic assessments to identify frailty are seldom applied, and oncologists’ ability to identify frailty is scarcely investigated. Methods: We compared oncologists’ classification of frailty (onc-frail) based on clinical judgement with a modified geriatric assessment (mGA), and investigated associations between frailty and overall survival. Patients ⩾70 years referred for medical cancer treatment were eligible. mGA-frailty was defined as impairment in at least one of the following: daily activities, comorbidity, polypharmacy, physical function or at least one geriatric syndrome (cognitive impairment, depression, malnutrition, falls). Results: Three hundred and seven patients were enroled, 288 (94%) completed the mGA, 286 (93%) were rated by oncologists. Median age was 77 years, 56% had metastases, 85% performance status (PS) 0–1. Overall, 104/286 (36%) were onc-frail and 140/288 (49%) mGA-frail, the agreement was fair (kappa value 0.30 (95% CI 0.19; 0.41)), and 67 mGA-frail patients who frequently had localised disease, good PS and received curative treatment, were missed by the oncologists. Only mGA-frailty was independently prognostic for survival (HR 1.61, 95% CI 1.14; 2.27; P=0.007). Conclusions: Systematic assessment of geriatric domains is needed to aid oncologists in identifying frail patients with poor survival.
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