Current Concepts and Management of Cancer Pain in Older Women

Abstract

Pain is the most common symptom associated with cancer. Sixty to eighty-five percent of individuals with advanced cancer have pain either of a severe or a chronic nature. Despite the fact that appropriate pain management exists, cancer pain is often inadequately controlled. Management strategies for older cancer patients must address the physical, psychological, and social concerns of the individual. The special problems of drug management presented by older patients reinforces the importance of implementing nonpharmacologic therapies when possible.