e18140 Background: More than 60% of cancer patients are older adults, and by 2020 the proportion of older adults with cancer will rise to 70%. Objective: To assess risk factors for overall survival (OS) in older cancer patients seen in a comprehensive cancer center. Methods: This is a single center, retrospective cohort study of older cancer patients (65 years of age and older). Patients receiving active cancer care underwent comprehensive geriatric assessment (including cognitive, mood, functional, nutritional, physical, and comorbidity assessment using validated scales). Hematologic, and solid tumors (urologic, breast, gastrointestinal cancers) were evaluated. Targeted interventions were implemented. Analysis: Univariate and multivariable Cox proportional hazards regression analysis were performed to identify factors associated with OS (SAS 9.4). Results: Among 304 eligible patients, the median follow-up was 12.7 months, 98 (32%) died, the median OS was 25.4 months. Median age is 78 years. Univariate analysis revealed known risk factors for mortality (advanced age [p = 0.004], and metastatic disease [p = 0.002]), functional impairment (ADL scores 0-4, p = 0.02), and major depression (p = 0.005). Comorbidity (p = 0.07) and functional impairment showed a marginal significance on OS. Factors with a univariate p-value less than 0.1 were considered in multivariable regression models. A final multivariable model included age group, cancer stage, functional impairment, and major depression. Risk factors for OS include major depression (HR 1.88 (95% CI, 1.12, 3.15), p-value = 0.02), functional impairment (HR 2.47 (95% C.I. 1.28, 4.74), p = 0.007), and metastatic disease (HR 2.2 (95% C.I. 1.30, 3.97), p = 0.004). Conclusions: Major depression and functional impairment were identified as risk factors for OS in older cancer patients. Prospective studies are recommended.
Screening tools for multidimensional health problems warranting a geriatric assessment in older cancer patients: an update on SIOG recommendations