Conclusions
The biologic basis for cancer is clearly multidimensional and complex. This chapter systematically discusses the key elements of the development, progression, and treatment of cancer with a specific focus on the role of aging in these processes. Unfortunately, there is no unifying explanation that describes the essence of cancer. There are, however, many biologic and epidemiologic links to aging. Biologic changes that occur during aging probably increase the likelihood of developing cancer. Age-associated changes also impact significantly on cancer therapeutics. All these areas need more research, but understanding them can help the clinician at the forefront of cancer prevention, diagnosis, and treatment in an aging population.
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Martell, R.E., Cohen, H.J. (2003). The Science of Neoplasia and Its Relationship to Aging. In: Geriatric Medicine. Springer, New York, NY. https://doi.org/10.1007/0-387-22621-4_32
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/0-387-22621-4_32
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