The True Leading Risk Factor for Cancer: Aging

When considering what causes cancer, many might assume lifestyle factors such as smoking, alcohol consumption, sun exposure, or hair dyes are the main reasons. However, the most significant risk factor for developing cancer is actually unavoidable: aging. As we grow older, our cells naturally undergo changes that increase the likelihood of cancerous mutations. This is an inherent process, affecting everyone regardless of their lifestyle choices.

Understanding this is crucial, especially given the demographic shifts happening worldwide. Older adults now constitute the fastest-growing segment of the population in countries like Canada, expected to make up nearly 29% of Canadians by 2068. Cancer remains one of the most common diseases among this age group. Therefore, healthcare systems need to adapt to provide better cancer care tailored to older adults.

Current challenges include a limited number of specialized geriatric oncology clinics, with only a few established across Canada. The existing clinics have demonstrated not only improved patient outcomes but also significant cost savings—approximately $7,000 per patient—highlighting the benefits of specialized, tailored care. However, such services are still not universally available, hindered by factors like resource constraints and systemic inertia.

One major obstacle is ageism, which leads to the undervaluation of age-specific healthcare needs. Discrimination based on age often results in older adults being denied access to specialized services that could greatly improve their quality of life. To address this, healthcare providers advocate for stratified models of care, focusing resources on the most frail who stand to benefit the most.

International guidelines emphasize the importance of geriatric assessments before treatment decisions, involving comprehensive evaluations of cognition, physical function, and co-existing health conditions. Integrating these assessments into routine cancer care, supported by multidisciplinary teams including geriatricians and nurse practitioners, can lead to more personalized and effective treatment strategies.

Although challenges persist, including limited resources and systemic barriers, the imperative to improve cancer care for older adults is clear. By recognizing aging as the primary risk factor and committing to targeted, age-aware approaches, healthcare systems can enhance outcomes and optimize resource use, ultimately improving the lives of millions of older adults worldwide.