Treatment of metastatic breast cancer in women aged 65 years and older

Breast cancer is a disease of aging and the incidence of breast cancer increases dramatically with increasing age. In spite of major advances in prevention, screening and treatment approximately 40,000 Americans still die of metastatic breast cancer every year – the majority being women aged 65 years and older. Metastatic breast cancer remains incurable regardless of age and the goals of treatment are to reduce symptoms when present and to provide the patient with the best quality of life for as long as possible. Cornerstones of treatment to control metastases include endocrine therapy, chemotherapy and radiation therapy. Supportive care that includes psychosocial support and treatment of pain is also a key component of management. This review focuses on the issues related to the care of older women with metastatic breast cancer.