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Fellowship In Geriatric Oncology

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Fellowship In Medical Oncology

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Course Overview

With the global rise in life expectancy, cancer among older adults has become one of the most significant challenges in modern oncology. Nearly half of all new cancer diagnoses occur in patients aged 65 and above, creating a growing need for oncologists trained in the specialized care of elderly patients.

The Fellowship in Geriatric Oncology at HCG is designed to bridge this gap by training clinicians in the comprehensive assessment, diagnosis, and management of cancer in the elderly. This program focuses on understanding the complex interplay between aging, comorbidities, treatment tolerance, and quality of life.

Through a multidisciplinary approach, fellows gain practical experience in personalized treatment planning, supportive care, and decision-making that aligns with patient values and functional status. With HCG’s expertise in advanced oncology and integrated care, this fellowship prepares clinicians to lead the evolving field of geriatric oncology in both clinical and research settings.

Why This Fellowship Matters

  • Aging Population: The elderly population is rapidly growing, leading to an increase in age-related cancers.
  • Unique Clinical Needs: Older patients require tailored treatment plans considering frailty, comorbidities, and quality of life.
  • Skill Gap: There is a shortage of trained oncologists specializing in geriatric care, especially in developing countries.
  • Holistic Approach: This fellowship emphasizes patient-centered oncology that balances survival outcomes with independence and dignity.
  • HCG’s Excellence: With access to multidisciplinary expertise and advanced treatment infrastructure, HCG provides a world-class learning platform for geriatric cancer care.

Fellowship Highlights

  • Comprehensive Clinical Exposure: Manage a wide range of cancers prevalent in older adults including breast, lung, GI, and hematologic malignancies.
  • Multidisciplinary Learning: Work alongside oncologists, geriatricians, palliative care specialists, dietitians, and physiotherapists.
  • Geriatric Assessment Tools: Learn to perform functional, cognitive, nutritional, and psychosocial assessments to guide treatment planning.
  • Personalized Treatment Design: Gain expertise in balancing aggressive cancer treatment with supportive care tailored to elderly needs.
  • Research Opportunities: Engage in geriatric oncology research, publications, and outcome-based studies.
  • Global Relevance: Build leadership and advocacy skills for improving geriatric cancer care systems worldwide.

Learning Objectives

By the end of this fellowship, participants will be able to:

  • Conduct comprehensive geriatric assessments to evaluate patient suitability for treatment.
  • Integrate oncologic and geriatric principles for individualized care.
  • Optimize cancer treatment while managing comorbidities and minimizing toxicity.
  • Provide supportive and palliative care for elderly patients.
  • Contribute to clinical research and policy development in geriatric oncology.
  • Promote awareness and education on aging and cancer management.

Eligibility:

MD / DNB in Medical Oncology, Radiation Oncology, Internal Medicine, or related specialties. (Experience in oncology practice preferred)

FAQs:

Doctors with MD/DNB in Medical Oncology, Radiation Oncology, or Internal Medicine are eligible. Prior experience in oncology or geriatric medicine is an advantage.

You will learn to assess and treat elderly cancer patients holistically—balancing oncologic treatment with functional and supportive care needs.

The fellowship typically spans 12 months, including clinical rotations, patient management, and research participation.

Yes. Fellows work closely with teams across oncology, geriatrics, physiotherapy, palliative care, and nutrition to deliver comprehensive care.

Graduates can lead geriatric oncology programs, serve as consultants in cancer hospitals, or contribute to research and education in aging and oncology.

Program Directors:

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Dr. Roshni Dasgupta

Consultant - Department of Medical Oncology HCG Cancer Center, Bangalore

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