GERIATRIK ONKOLOJI HASTALARINDA TEDAVIYE UYUM

This study focuses on assessing cancer treatment adherence in the elderly population amidst the global increase in aging. While the relationship between aging and cancer is not fully understood, they are believed to influence each other. Common cancers in the elderly include breast, lung, prostate, and colorectal cancer. The study aims to evaluate adherence to treatment for age-related cancers and identify influencing factors. Treatment adherence, crucial for treatment effectiveness, is found to be lower in the elderly compared to younger individuals. Factors affecting adherence include age, gender, socioeconomic status, comorbidities, treatment duration, and polypharmacy. Lack of social support and polypharmacy contribute to non-adherence. With the rise in age-related diseases, polypharmacy becomes more common, emphasizing the need for social support. Enhancing adherence is vital for managing cancer effectively with age. However, studies reveal that many elderly individuals struggle to adhere to treatment due to polypharmacy and lack of support, impacting their survival. Few studies focus on treatment adherence in elderly cancer patients, highlighting the need for more research in this area to improve patient outcomes.