New Insights into Challenges Faced by Older Breast Cancer Survivors

A recent study led by Dr. Claire Morton and co-authored by Dr. Christina Ahn Minami, both affiliated with the Department of Surgery at Brigham and Women's Hospital, sheds light on the unique challenges faced by older breast cancer survivors. Their research, published in the journal *Current Breast Cancer Reports* on June 17, 2025, highlights the growing population of older women living with a history of breast cancer in the United States, a phenomenon attributed to both new diagnoses among women over 65 and increased longevity among those diagnosed at younger ages.

The study emphasizes the need for tailored healthcare strategies to address the long-term issues that affect the quality of life of older survivors, particularly those diagnosed later in life. According to Dr. Morton, "Our research explores the unique challenges faced by this population, including fatigue, chronic pain, mental health concerns, and cognitive decline, which can persist long after treatment has concluded."

The authors conducted a comprehensive review of existing literature, examining various factors that impact this demographic. They discovered that older adults recently diagnosed with breast cancer report higher levels of fatigue, insomnia, cognitive decline, and mental health issues such as depression and anxiety compared to their younger counterparts. While older women are less frequently treated with chemotherapy or radiation, the reasons behind this discrepancy remain unclear. It is uncertain whether it is primarily due to physician recommendations based on treatment tolerance or patient preferences influenced by personal values and fears regarding side effects.

Furthermore, the research indicates that women transitioning into survivorship face increased risks of falls and fractures, as well as declines in physical and cognitive health. Long-term survivors often experience chronic pain and persistent fatigue, significantly impacting their overall well-being.

Dr. Minami noted, "Our work highlights the importance of discussing potential outcomes during cancer treatment planning, enabling informed decision-making and providing ongoing support throughout survivorship."

To enhance care for older breast cancer survivors, the authors recommend geriatric assessments to identify age-related conditions such as frailty and to ensure that healthcare providers can offer appropriate support before treatment begins. This proactive approach can optimize health outcomes and improve the quality of life for older patients.

Looking ahead, the research team plans to utilize large, long-term datasets to identify older patients at high risk for experiencing long-term symptoms and declines. They also aim to advance the implementation of geriatric oncology programs that incorporate geriatric assessments and personalized interventions to support older adults throughout their treatment and survivorship journey. Additionally, qualitative research methods will be applied to explore how best to integrate long-term survivorship data into early treatment discussions between healthcare providers and patients.

The study received funding from several prestigious organizations, including the National Institute on Aging, the National Institutes of Health, the American Cancer Society, and the Brigham and Women's Department of Surgery. The findings underscore the need for a focused approach to address the complexities of breast cancer survivorship among older women, paving the way for improved care and support tailored to their unique needs.