Cancer rates tend to increase as people get older, and cancer poses special challenges for older patients as well as caregivers. In addition, while doctors once fought cancer much the same way in every patient, researchers now are discovering that every individual requires a unique treatment strategy.

With those concerns and more in mind, the UNC Lineberger Center is inviting residents, older adults, cancer patients, caregivers – and anyone else with interest – to a symposium on “Cancer and Older Adults” Thursday, November 19, from noon to 5 pm at the Friday Center.

It’s a free public forum, featuring some of the Lineberger Center’s leading doctors and researchers, with talks and workshops highlighting the latest research and offering tools and tips for caregivers and patients fighting cancer. UNC women’s basketball head coach Sylvia Hatchell – herself a cancer survivor – is scheduled to be among the speakers.

Dr. Trevor Jolly is a geriatric oncologist at the Lineberger Center and one of the forum’s featured speakers. He stopped by WCHL this week and discussed the event with Aaron Keck.

 

For more information on the forum, including a full agenda and a link to register, visit this link.