British Geriatrics Society

As we pass another World Cancer Day on 4 February 2020, I reflect on why I am passionate about promoting a healthy diet and lifestyle for cancer prevention. 1 in 2 people born after 1960 will develop cancer in their lifetime, and cancer is the commonest cause of premature death in the UK.

Getting older and having dementia increases the risk of health problems and can make it hard for people to keep their mouth and teeth clean. As a result, more oral health problems occur. 

Sarcopenia is a hot topic in research and clinical practice for anyone caring for older people. It is common, and is associated with multiple adverse outcomes that we all see in everyday practice including falls, fractures, prolonged hospitalization, loss of independence and earlier death.