There is a great deal of uncertainty about whether the oncological treatment described in the guidelines is the best possible treatment for elderly patients. 'Treatment guidelines are almost always tested in younger, healthier patients,' says Maryska Janssen-Heijnen. 'This despite the fact that older patients often suffer from one or more serious chronic conditions in addition to cancer. They also have lower functional reserves. The prescribed treatment may prove too taxing for some elderly patients, while other, healthier patients may be undertreated for fear of complications, despite being able to physically endure a stronger treatment.'

Quality of life
Through their research, Janssen-Heijnen and her colleagues hope to gain a better understanding of the patient characteristics that help to determine whether a patient is at risk of developing severe side effects of a certain treatment or whether they can tolerate and benefit from that treatment. This knowledge can make it easier to pinpoint the right therapy and strike the right balance between life extending measures and quality of life. The professor also hopes to determine whether lifestyle changes can improve a patient's health, thereby also improving the way they respond to cancer treatment. She expects to see faster recovery times, lower mortality rates and improved health and overall quality of life. An important element is to motivate patients to maintain their new lifestyles and to focus on providing good follow-up care. This calls for close collaboration between general practitioners and geriatric medicine specialists.