When you think of cancer causes, what pops into your head? Smoking, alcohol, sun exposure, perhaps even hair dye? Surprise! The number one risk factor isn’t any of these. It’s ageing—a natural process that no one can escape!

This revelation is crucial, especially as our global population ages rapidly. Projections indicate that by 2068, nearly 29% of Canadians will be over 65. With age being so closely linked to cancer, we must rethink how we deliver effective cancer care to our senior citizens.

The Ageing Population Dilemma

So, how prepared are we for this surge in older adults facing cancer diagnoses? Unfortunately, the answer isn't promising. However, this challenge presents a golden opportunity for innovation in cancer care.

The Necessity of Geriatric Assessments

According to international guidelines from organizations like the American Society of Clinical Oncology, every older adult should undergo a geriatric assessment before deciding on cancer treatment options. These assessments, typically led by geriatricians, help healthcare providers engage with patients in a holistic manner.

Such consultations allow for conversations about how treatments could impact cognition, functionality, and existing health conditions—factors often ignored in traditional oncology assessments.

Canada's Current Care Landscape

Currently, Canada has only a handful of specialized geriatric oncology clinics, with the oldest located at Montréal’s Jewish General Hospital. Others, like the Older Adult with Cancer Clinic at Toronto's Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, are paving the way for future developments. Researchers are already in touch with clinics in Ontario and Alberta that are in the process of establishing these vital services.

Interestingly, studies indicate that these clinics might not only enhance patient well-being but also save the healthcare system approximately $7,000 per older adult treated. Scaling this across the number of older Canadians diagnosed with cancer each year could mean massive financial relief for our public health resources.

Unmet Needs and Voices from the Community

In British Columbia, there are currently no specialized services for older cancer patients. Research led by Kristen Haase has involved over 100 conversations with members of the cancer community, including caregivers and health professionals—who all echoed the urgent need for more supportive measures within the healthcare system.

The Roadblocks Ahead

So, why are these essential services lacking across Canada? Cost is usually a significant barrier, yet the prospect of cost savings through tailored care should spur action.

Another major hurdle is the shortage of geriatricians, though successful nurse-led models may provide a viable alternative. Moreover, a reluctance to break away from the established physician-driven care model in oncology complicates efforts for reform.

Perhaps the most insidious issue lies in ageism—the prejudice against older adults. Imagine the outrage if pediatric patients couldn’t see a specialist. Unfortunately, this disparity persists in geriatric care.

A Call for Innovative Solutions

As the older population swells, it's impractical to expect every elderly person to access specialized geriatric services. However, we have a chance to develop targeted care models that focus on the most vulnerable—those frail elderly individuals who would benefit most from personalized attention.

If the compelling stories of improved lives for older cancer patients or adherence to international guidelines don’t drive change, perhaps the massive potential for cost savings will inspire action. It’s time we step up and prioritize the health of our ageing population.