WCLC 2025 - Posters & ePosters-EP.17.03 Disparities in Lung Cancer Treatment for Older Adults

Pdf Summary

This retrospective cohort study examined disparities in lung cancer treatment between older (≥65 years) and younger adults with stage IV lung cancer diagnosed from 2018-2022. Using institutional cancer registry data and social determinants of health from a national database, the study assessed treatment receipt and associated factors such as ECOG performance status, histology, and household structure.<br /><br />Key findings indicate no overall difference in receipt of frontline systemic therapy between older and younger adults. However, older adults were more likely to receive immunotherapy alone and less likely to receive any treatment if they had poorer functional status (ECOG 2) compared to younger adults. Functional status and tumor histology were dominant predictors of whether patients received treatment. Socioeconomic variables such as wealth, education, neighborhood crime, and property values did not influence treatment receipt. Although older and younger groups differed significantly in household composition—suggesting potential differences in caregiving and support—these social factors were not linked to treatment uptake.<br /><br />Survival analysis showed younger adults had longer post-diagnosis survival than older adults. The study highlights that while systemic treatment rates are comparable across ages, older adults’ unique needs, especially regarding functional ability and support structures, require personalized approaches to optimize care. The researchers call for future focus on tailoring caregiving and support services to enhance treatment access and outcomes in older lung cancer patients.<br /><br />In summary, the study underscores that age alone does not determine treatment disparities, but functional status and tumor characteristics strongly influence treatment decisions. Social determinants examined did not significantly impact therapy receipt, though differing household dynamics warrant further investigation to better support older adults with lung cancer. Understanding these factors is critical for addressing disparities and improving treatment equity and survival in this vulnerable population.

Asset Subtitle

Roshni Kailar

Meta Tag

Speaker Roshni Kailar

Topic Global Health, Health Services, and Health Economics

Keywords

lung cancer

stage IV

older adults

younger adults

systemic therapy

immunotherapy

ECOG performance status

tumor histology

treatment disparities

social determinants of health