Deprescribing Among Older Adults with Cancer
Author Information
Author(s): Coates Martha, Hajjar Emily, DiMaria-Ghalili Rose Ann
Primary Institution: Drexel University
Hypothesis
The study aims to examine deprescribing acceptance among Medicare beneficiaries with cancer.
Conclusion
Older adults with cancer are willing to stop medications they may no longer need if suggested by their healthcare provider, despite believing that all their medications are necessary.
Supporting Evidence
- 63% of older adults with cancer agreed they took a large number of medications.
- 74.4% expressed a desire to reduce their medications.
- 95.8% would stop one or more medications if their doctor suggested it.
- 77% disagreed that they took medications they didn’t need.
- 93.3% highly agreed that all of their medications were necessary.
Takeaway
Older people with cancer want to take fewer medicines if their doctor says it's okay, but they think all their medicines are important.
Methodology
The study utilized the National Health and Aging Trends Study Round 6 (2016) dataset and included individuals who answered the Medication Attitudes Module.
Limitations
The study is limited by its reliance on self-reported data regarding medication use and attitudes.
Participant Demographics
Participants included Medicare beneficiaries with cancer, with 6.1% reporting a history of cancer and over half experiencing polypharmacy.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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