Exploration of integrated traditional Chinese and Western medicine treatment schemes for advanced malignant tumors in elderly patients

The global burden of tumor diseases is increasing, with older individuals being a high-risk group for tumor incidence. Older patients with advanced malignant tumor face multiple challenges, including poor tolerance to chemotherapy, significant psychological stress, and heavy financial burdens. Professor YANG Yufei′s team at Xiyuan Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, has proposed an integrated approach combining traditional Chinese and Western medicine treatments tailored for older patients with advanced malignant tumor, which has demonstrated promising clinical efficacy. Older patients with advanced malignant tumor are categorized into three groups based on disease characteristics, financial status, treatment preferences, and organ function. Three treatment strategies have been established corresponding to these categories: pure traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) therapy, balanced integration of Chinese and Western medicine, and TCM-assisted standard Western medical chemotherapy. This approach can improve both survival and quality of life in older patients with advanced malignant tumor. Exploring treatment strategies for older patients with advanced malignant tumor is of significant importance for enhancing their quality of life, prolonging survival, and promoting a deeper integration of Chinese and Western medicine. This article summarizes the integrated Chinese and Western medicine treatment approaches for older patients with advanced malignant tumor, explores diagnostic and therapeutic strategies, and aims to provide clinical insights to leverage the advantages of this integrated methodology.