Hospital-based Population of Elderly Cancer Cases in Northeastern Thailand

Abstract

<b>Background:</b> The proportion of aged Thais (≥65 years old) is expected to be 30% by 2030, leading to an increased number of elderly cancer cases. Older individuals have distinct patterns of cancer and treatment needs. We therefore conducted the present study of new cancer cases and trends to get a perspective on the elderly cancer situation in Northeast Thailand. Materials and <br/><b>Methods</b>: All new elderly cancer cases (≥65 years) registered in the hospital-based cancer registry at the Faculty of Medicine, Srinagarind Hospital, Khon Kaen University during 1993-2012 were included in the study. <br/><b>Results</b>: Elderly patients accounted for 31.6% of all cancer patients and new cancer cases in the older age group increased 46% from the first to second decades. The absolute number of oldest old (80+ years) doubled. The top three cancers in males were liver and bile duct, lung, and colorectal. In females, the three most common cancers were liver and bile duct, oral cavity, and cervix. Cancers with the highest percentages of increase were thyroid, prostate, and colorectal. <br/><b>Conclusions</b>: Elderly cancer cases are increasing. Treatment modalities and palliative care for older populations are urgently needed.