Apollo Hospitals Navi Mumbai has launched a dedicated Geriatric Oncology Clinic to provide specialised cancer care for older adults, with treatment decisions tailored to patients’ overall health, functional status and ability to tolerate therapy rather than chronological age alone.

The initiative comes as the burden of cancer among older adults continues to grow in India. Nearly one in two cancer cases in the country are estimated to occur among people aged 60 and above, underscoring the need for specialised approaches to treating elderly cancer patients.

Chronological age does not necessarily reflect a patient’s physical fitness, functional independence or ability to withstand intensive cancer treatment. Factors including frailty, nutritional status, cognitive health, existing medical conditions, medication burden and social support can significantly influence treatment choices and outcomes.

Dr. Tejinder Singh, Professor and Lead Consultant – Medical and Precision Oncology, Apollo Hospitals Navi Mumbai, said that more than one-third of the cancer patients treated at the hospital are above 60 years of age.

“Cancer care for older adults cannot follow a one-size-fits-all approach. Age alone does not tell us whether a patient is fit enough for chemotherapy, immunotherapy, targeted therapy or surgery. What matters is the patient’s overall health, functional independence, nutritional status, cognitive ability, co-existing illnesses and personal treatment goals,” Singh said.

The clinic will bring together medical oncologists, geriatricians, nutritionists, physiotherapists, psychologists and other specialists to provide coordinated care across the cancer treatment journey, from diagnosis and treatment planning to supportive care and follow-up.

Dr. Sayali Damle, Consultant, Geriatric Medicine, Apollo Hospitals Navi Mumbai, said, “Geriatric oncology is not about giving less treatment to older patients. It is about preventing both undertreatment of fit patients who can benefit from cancer therapy and overtreatment of frail patients who may face avoidable complications.” 

A detailed geriatric assessment allows us to identify risks early, address reversible concerns and personalise care in a way that improves safety and supports better outcomes,” Damle said.