A new BJS (British Journal of Surgery) study indicates that breast cancer surgery is safe for patients who are older than 70 years of age, but age can influence the decision to undergo surgery.

The Bridging the Age Gap in Breast Cancer study was conducted to determine factors influencing treatment decisions and outcomes from surgery for older breast cancer patients. Of 3,375 recruited women, surgery was performed in 2,816 patients. Serious adverse events were rare and there were no deaths attributed to surgery. Age, ill health, and frailty all impacted decisions related to surgery. Surgery had a negative impact on quality of life and functional independence.

Source: Read Full Article