Common Types of Cancer in Older Adults and Their Warning Signs

Common cancer types in Elderly

Cancer is one of the most common health concerns affecting older adults today. As people age, the risk of developing cancer increases due to long-term cell damage, lifestyle factors, and reduced immunity. Understanding the common types of cancer in older adults, along with their early warning signs, can make a life-changing difference. Early detection often leads to better treatment outcomes and improved quality of life. This guide helps families recognise symptoms, understand risks, and know when to seek medical help, so older loved ones receive timely care, support, and dignity at every stage.

Key Facts About Cancer (WHO)

• Cancer is one of the leading causes of death worldwide. 

• In 2020 alone, it was responsible for nearly 10 million deaths, which means almost one in six deaths globally. 

• When we talk about the types of cancer affecting people today, some appear far more often than others, especially among older adults.

• According to global data, the most common types of cancer include breast cancer, lung cancer, colon and rectum cancer, and prostate cancer. 

• These are also considered the most common cancers in older adults, making awareness and early detection especially important for families and caregivers.

• Lifestyle factors play a major role. 

• Around one-third of cancer-related deaths are linked to tobacco use, alcohol consumption, high body weight, unhealthy diets, and low physical activity. 

• Air pollution is another major contributor, particularly to lung cancer. In many regions, infections such as HPV and hepatitis also increase risk, adding to the different types of cancer seen worldwide.
  

Why Older Adults Are at Higher Risk of Cancer

As we grow older, the chances of developing cancer naturally increase. This often surprises people because media stories frequently highlight cancer in younger individuals. While anyone can get cancer, it is far less common at a young age. Most cancer cases are diagnosed in people aged 50 and above, making cancer largely an age-related condition.

So why does this happen?

Over time, our body’s cells get damaged. Some damage happens naturally as cells divide and function every day. Other damage comes from outside factors like smoking, alcohol, pollution, or too much sun exposure. Usually, the body repairs this damage or removes faulty cells.

However, as we age, there is simply more time for damage to build up. When damage accumulates in the same cell, it may cease to function normally and begin to grow uncontrollably. This is how cancer develops.

Common Types of Cancer in Older Adults

As people age, the risk of developing cancer increases. Many of the most common cancers in older adults are linked to long-term cell damage and lifestyle factors over time. Below are some common types of cancer that are more frequently observed in older adults, explained in simple terms.

Breast Cancer

Breast cancer is one of the most common types of cancer in people over the age of 60, especially among women. In 2024, over 310,000 women were diagnosed with breast cancer, and around 42,000 lost their lives to it.

The encouraging part is that early detection has made a big difference. With regular screening and improved treatments, nearly 90% of people diagnosed with breast cancer survive for at least five years. Knowing the warning signs of cancer, such as lumps or changes in the breast, helps in seeking timely care.

Prostate Cancer

Prostate cancer is the most common type of cancer diagnosed in men over 65. In 2024, nearly 299,000 men were diagnosed, and over 35,000 deaths were reported. 

Routine screening and early diagnosis play a key role here. More than 98% of men diagnosed with prostate cancer live five years or longer, making awareness of types of cancer and symptoms extremely important.

Colon Cancer

Colon cancer mostly affects older adults, with more than half of cases occurring in people aged 67 and above. In 2024, over 152,000 people were diagnosed, and around 53,000 deaths occurred.The good news is that screening tests can help detect it early. About 63% of people diagnosed survive five years or more, showing why paying attention to warning signs of cancer, such as changes in bowel habits, matters.

Lung Cancer

Lung cancer is one of the deadliest types of cancer, with most cases found in people over 70. In 2024, over 235,000 people were diagnosed, and more than 125,000 died.

Despite treatment advances, survival rates remain low, making early attention to warning signs of cancer, like persistent cough or breathlessness, critical.

Bladder Cancer

Bladder cancer commonly affects people over 65. In 2024, over 83,000 cases were diagnosed, with more than 17,000 deaths.

More than 70% of patients survive beyond five years, especially when symptoms like blood in urine are not ignored.

Types of Cancer and Their Symptoms: What Families Should Watch For

Non-melanoma Skin Cancer

Non-melanoma skin cancer is the most common type of cancer worldwide. It primarily includes basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma and often occurs on sun-exposed areas, such as the face, neck, and upper body.

Warning signs of cancer to watch for include sores that do not heal, shiny or scaly patches, small lumps that bleed or itch, or scar-like skin that appears without injury. These symptoms are important warning signs of cancer, especially if they keep returning.

Breast Cancer

Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers in older adults, affecting both women and, rarely, men.

Signs may include a new lump in the breast or underarm, swelling, skin dimpling, nipple pain, unusual discharge, or nipple inversion. Not all lumps are cancer, but any change should be checked.

Lung Cancer

Lung cancer remains one of the deadliest types of cancer, especially in seniors. Common symptoms include a persistent cough, coughing up blood, shortness of breath, chest pain, recurrent lung infections, unexplained weight loss, and persistent fatigue. These are serious warning signs of cancer that should never be ignored.

Prostate Cancer

Prostate cancer is the most common type of cancer in older men. Symptoms may include difficulty urinating, frequent nighttime urination, pain during urination or ejaculation, blood in urine, or pain in the lower back and hips.

Colon and Rectal Cancer

These common types of cancer often begin with digestive changes. Signs include long-lasting constipation or diarrhoea, narrow stools, stomach pain, blood in stool, rectal bleeding, weakness, and unexplained weight loss.

Early Warning Signs of Cancer: When to Be Cautious

Noticing a symptom does not automatically mean cancer. Many everyday health issues can look similar. Still, certain changes act as warning signs of cancer, and paying attention early can make a real difference, especially for older adults.

Unexplained Weight Loss

Losing weight without trying should not be ignored. A sudden loss of 10 pounds or more may be linked to several types of cancer, even though non-cancer causes are more common.

Extreme Fatigue

This is not normal tiredness. Ongoing exhaustion that doesn’t improve with rest can be an early signal. Cancer may use up the body’s nutrients, leading to deep fatigue, one of the overlooked types of cancer and its symptoms.

Recurring Fever

Occasional fever is common. But fevers that occur mostly at night, come with night sweats, or appear without infection are important warning signs of cancer.

Persistent Pain

Pain that doesn’t go away deserves attention. Tumours, chemical changes, or cancer spread can all cause pain. While pain has many causes, ongoing discomfort should be checked.

Skin Changes

Yellowing of the eyes or skin, or changes in moles, such as an uneven shape, darkening colour, or growth, can indicate underlying issues. Since skin reflects internal health, these changes are key warning signs of cancer.

Importance of Early Detection and Regular Screening

Early detection plays a major role in improving cancer outcomes. When cancer is found early, treatment is more effective, and survival rates are higher. Early detection has two parts: early diagnosis and screening.

Early diagnosis focuses on identifying cancer as soon as symptoms appear. This depends on people recognising early warning signs of cancer and having quick access to doctors, tests, and treatment. It is especially important for cancers of the breast, cervix, mouth, colon, rectum, and skin.

Screening helps detect cancer before symptoms start. Simple tests such as mammograms, Pap smears, or colorectal screening can identify disease early in healthy individuals. However, screening is recommended only when the benefits clearly outweigh the risks.

Some tests can cause false alarms, unnecessary anxiety, or overtreatment. Accordingly, mass screening is recommended primarily for cervical, breast, and colorectal cancers.

Cancer Care and Support for Older Adults at Yodda

Millions of families live with constant worry about ageing parents back home, especially when distance, work, or life abroad makes daily presence impossible. Cancer care adds another layer of emotional and practical stress. Yodda helps bridge this gap by bringing reliable, compassionate care directly to your parents in the comfort of their own home.

Yodda’s approach focuses on safety, dignity, and continuity. Rather than relocating older adults to unfamiliar facilities, care is delivered where they feel most secure. While no service can replace the emotional bond you share with your parents, Yodda ensures that the quality of medical, personal, and emotional support remains consistently high.

Caregivers are carefully screened, trained, and monitored to ensure compliance with standards. For older adults living with cancer or other serious conditions, Yodda care plans can be customised in coordination with specialised healthcare professionals. From daily assistance to condition-specific support, families gain assurance that their loved ones are cared for every day, without compromise.

Yodda is here to support you and your loved ones, no matter where you are. Speak to our care experts to explore a personalised cancer care plan that keeps your parents safe, comfortable, and cared for at home.

Get in touch with Yodda today to discuss your parents’ care needs.

Frequently Asked Questions - FAQs

What is the most common cancer in older adults?

Breast, prostate, lung, and colorectal cancers are among the most common cancers seen in older adults.

Are cancer symptoms different in elderly people?

Symptoms may be subtle or mistaken for ageing, which is why early warning signs should never be ignored.

When should warning signs of cancer be checked by a doctor?

If symptoms persist, worsen, or appear without a clear reason, medical advice should be sought promptly.

Can cancer be managed at home for older adults?

Yes, with proper medical guidance and professional care support, many aspects of cancer care can be managed at home.

How can families support elderly cancer patients emotionally?

Regular communication, patience, reassurance, and professional care support help reduce stress and improve well-being.