Cancer
Cancer is primarily a disease of older adults. In the US, half of all cancers occur in people over the age of 65. Half of all men and one-third of all women in the US will be diagnosed with cancer sometime during their lifetimes. After heart disease, it is the leading cause of death in the US. The most common cancers are lung cancer, colon cancer, breast cancer (for women), and prostate cancer (for men). Some cancers – most notably, breast cancer -- are less aggressive when they occur in older adults.
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The following online resources provide access to current and reliable information about the different types of cancers, including ones that are most common in seniors:
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Cancer Basic Facts & Information
Information from HealthinAging.org. HealthinAging.org, created by the American Geriatrics Society's Health in Aging Foundation, to provide consumers and caregivers with up-to-date information on health and aging.
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Information from the American Cancer Society. Get information on 70 different cancers, how to reduce your risk go getting cancer, and where to find help to manage your disease.The American Cancer Society is a nationwide, community-based voluntary health organization dedicated to eliminating cancer as a major health problem.
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CancerCare is a national organization dedicated to providing free, professional support services including counseling, support groups, educational workshops, publications and financial assistance to anyone affected by cancer.
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In-depth information from the National Cancer Institute. This federal agency's website offers free, credible, and comprehensive information about cancer prevention; cancer screening, diagnosis and treatment; latest research news; and access to cancer clinical trials.
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Cancer.Net offers individualized guides for more than 120 types of cancer and related hereditary syndromes. For each cancer, the guide provides comprehensive on: Introduction, Medical Illustrations, Risk Factors, Prevention, Symptoms & Signs, Diagnosis, Stages, Treatment Options, About Clinical Trials, Latest Research, Coping with Treatment, Follow-Up Care, Survivorship, Questions to Ask the Doctor, and Additional Resources. Cancer.Net is a resource from the The American Society of Clinical Oncology.
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