Unmet Supportive Care Needs among Indian Geriatric Cancer Patients

Cancer among older adults in India presents unique challenges, including late diagnoses, limited specialized care, and difficulties in accessing treatment. Older cancer patients often face not just the physical burden of cancer but also emotional distress, financial strain, and social isolation. Many of these patients have unmet supportive care needshelp that goes beyond medical treatment to improve their quality of life.

Older cancer patients represent the largest group in oncology, yet they often experience worse outcomes due to gaps in care. They may struggle with daily activities, managing side effects, and coping with mental health issues like depression and anxiety. Having access to information, financial assistance, transportation, and emotional support can significantly improve their well-being. However, many of these needs remain unmet, leading to lower treatment adherence and poorer quality of life.

This study aims to:

• Identify the unmet supportive care needs of older cancer patients.
• Examine how these needs impact their healthrelated quality of life.
• Provide insights to improve care and develop better healthcare policies.

The study will include 92 geriatric cancer patients from hospitals in India.

Participants will answer questionnaires about their physical, emotional, and social well-being.

Some participants will also take part in interviews to share their experiences in greater detail.

Statistical and qualitative methods will be used to analyze the findings.

The study will help identify critical areas where older cancer patients need more support. By understanding these needs, healthcare providers can design better services, improve patient outcomes, and advocate for supportive care policies at a national level.