Cancer and age: Why are older people more vulnerable?

Cancer and age: Why are older people more vulnerable? Cancer is an age-related disease. As human longevity increases and population ageing increases, the incidence of cancer increases. Age growth is an important factor that cannot be overlooked in the incidence of cancer. The increase in the genetic mutation of cells and the gradual erosion of the immune system make older people more vulnerable to cancer. This phenomenon not only reveals the biological properties of cancer, but also highlights the importance of regular screening and monitoring of older age groups. Early detection and timely intervention can significantly improve the survival and quality of life of older patients.First, the accumulation of cell gene mutations is one of the main causes of the increased vulnerability of older people to cancer. There may be errors in the reproduction of DNA in the division of human cells, which can usually be corrected at a young age through the mechanisms of repair of the cells themselves. However, with age, the accumulation of cell fragmentation increases the probability of mutation of genes. Some mutations may not have an impact on cell function, but others may result in uncontrolled cell growth and tumours. In addition, certain environmental factors and lifestyles, such as smoking, alcohol consumption, unhealthy eating habits and lack of exercise, can increase the risk of genetic mutation, which may have accumulated for decades among the elderly.Second, the gradual erosion of the immune system is also one of the reasons why older persons are more vulnerable to cancer. The immune system is the first line of protection against disease in the human body, which identifies and eliminates abnormal cells, including cancer cells. However, as age increases, the effectiveness of the immune system decreases. The slower response of immunosuppressors and the reduced ability to identify and remove cancer cells make it easier for older persons to develop into cancer. In addition, older persons may be associated with other chronic diseases, which themselves or their therapeutic drugs may further inhibit the immune system, thus increasing the risk of cancer.Given the close relationship between age and cancer, regular cancer screening and monitoring of older persons is particularly important. Cancer screening refers to the detection of early cancer or pre-cancer pathologies through medical examinations without symptoms. For the elderly, regular breast X-rays, colonoscopy, prostate specific antigens (PSA) tests, etc., can lead to early detection of common cancers such as breast, colon and prostate cancer. Early detection of cancer usually means more choice of treatment, more cure, longer life and better quality of life for patients.In addition to screening, older persons should pay attention to lifestyle adjustments to reduce cancer risks. Maintaining a healthy diet, increasing the intake of vegetables and fruits and reducing the intake of red meat and processed meat; maintaining a moderate physical activity with a medium intensity of at least 150 minutes per week; avoiding smoking and overdrinking; maintaining a healthy weight; and reducing exposure to sunlight is an effective way of preventing cancer.There has also been significant progress in the treatment of cancer in today’s progressive medical technology. With regard to cancer treatment for older persons, doctors will focus more on individualized treatment programmes, taking into account the age, overall health status and quality of life of patients. Treatment may include surgery, treatment, chemotherapy, target treatment and immunization treatment. In the course of treatment, doctors minimize the impact on the normal life of patients while controlling the development of cancer.In sum, age is an important factor in the incidence of cancer, and older people are more vulnerable to cancer as a result of the accumulation of cell genetic mutations and the reduced functioning of the immune system. Regular cancer screening and monitoring of older persons, as well as the adoption of healthy lifestyles, are therefore essential for the prevention and early detection of cancer. Through these measures, the survival and quality of life of older patients can be improved and they can enjoy a healthier and happier old age.