Crisis in oncology: Risk for elderly cancer patients increases dramatically

An alarming international report, produced by The Lancet Oncology Commission and presented at the ASCO 2026 meeting in Chicago, warns that global healthcare systems are heading towards an unprecedented oncological crisis. This situation poses a particular threat to elderly patients, who account for the majority of diagnosed cancer cases.

The shortage of oncology specialists represents a major threat to the quality of medical care for older adults. Elderly patients, who require complex treatments and a multidisciplinary approach, risk facing significant delays in diagnosis and treatment, which can have a dramatic impact on their prognosis.

The situation is all the more concerning given that cancer incidence increases with age. People over 65 are far more likely to develop forms of cancer, and the lack of specialists may lead to underdiagnosis or inadequate treatment for this vulnerable patient group.

The report highlights that this crisis will have a direct impact on the families and carers of older adults, who will need to navigate an overburdened healthcare system. Extended waiting times for consultations and treatments will place additional pressure on all those involved in the care of elderly cancer patients.

Experts are calling for urgent measures to train and attract new specialists in oncology, as well as the development of dedicated programmes for the care of elderly cancer patients, taking into account the complexity of this patient group's needs.