Cancer in the elderly in India: Challenges, attitudes, and strategies for improvement

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Original Article

Author Details : Anmol Mahani*

Volume : 11, Issue : 2, Year : 2024

Article Page : 58-60

https://doi.org/10.18231/j.agems.2024.013

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Abstract

Introduction: India’s elderly population faces growing cancer incidences, with unique challenges rooted in cultural, socioeconomic, and healthcare disparities. Limited health literacy, delayed medical intervention, gender biases, and inadequate healthcare infrastructure, particularly in rural areas, worsen the issue. Social stigma and psychological barriers further hinder prompt cancer diagnosis and treatment, leaving many elderly patients vulnerable to advanced-stage diagnoses.
Aims and Objective: This study aims to identify and analyse the key challenges faced by elderly cancer patients in India, including cultural attitudes, access to healthcare, financial constraints, and psychosocial impacts. Additionally, the goal is to propose strategies for improving cancer care, prevention, and support for this demographic.
Materials and Methods: A mixed-methods approach was utilised, incorporating quantitative and qualitative analyses to assess challenges in elderly cancer care in India. This review synthesises data from studies published between 2018 and 2023, using information from national cancer registries, Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) reports, and peer-reviewed literature. Studies included addressed socio-cultural, economic, and psychological barriers in elderly cancer care across India, focusing on gaps in knowledge and intervention strategies.
Results: The analysis revealed that 60% of cancers and 70% of cancer-related deaths occur in individuals aged 65 and above. Low health literacy, delayed diagnosis, and financial constraints were identified as the primary barriers. Significant treatment aversion was noted, with 58% of elderly patients perceiving chemotherapy as harmful. Rural areas lacked adequate healthcare facilities, contributing to delayed diagnosis and treatment. Psychosocial issues, including depression and anxiety, were prevalent and often aggravated by social isolation and stigma.
Conclusion: Addressing these issues requires a multifaceted approach, including policy interventions to expand healthcare access in rural areas, enhance health literacy, and provide financial support for elderly patients. Collaborative efforts involving government, non-governmental organisations, and community leaders are essential to improve early diagnosis, treatment accessibility, and quality of life for elderly cancer patients in India.

Keywords: Elderly cancer, Cancer prevention, Psychosocial barriers, Healthcare access, India cancer care, Gender disparities, Cancer awareness, Health literacy, Palliative care, Cancer stigma

How to cite : Mahani A, Cancer in the elderly in India: Challenges, attitudes, and strategies for improvement. Ann Geriatr Educ Med Sci 2024;11(2):58-60

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