The Role of the G8 Score in Therapeutic Decisions for Elderly Patients With Colorectal Cancer: Experience From the Department of Medical Oncology, Ibn Sina Military Hospital of Marrakech

Introduction: Colorectal cancer predominantly affects older adults. The geriatric assessment tool was developed to identify elderly cancer patients suitable for standard treatment and to guide the optimal treatment plan. Materials and methods: A retrospective pilot study was conducted in the medical oncology department, including patients aged 65 and over treated for colorectal cancer. Results: We identified 88 patients over 65 years of age: 48 (54.5%) had localized disease, and 40 (45.5%) had metastatic disease. Among patients with localized disease, chemotherapy was indicated in 25 patients (52%); of these, 17 (68%) had a G8 score >14. Among patients with a G8 score ≤14 (n = 8), 5 (62.50%) required a dose reduction. Among the metastatic patients, 16 (40%) had a G8 score ≤14. Among those with a G8 score >14, 5 patients (20.83%) subsequently required dose adjustments, compared to 79.17% (n = 19) who received the conventional dose. Conclusion: Several limitations must be highlighted regarding the use of the G8 score in colorectal cancer. First, the majority of published studies are observational, with limited sample sizes and heterogeneous conclusions. Second, there is still no randomized controlled trial formally demonstrating that a G8-guided therapeutic strategy improves overall survival or quality of life compared to standard care.