Over the last fifty years we have witnessed the ageing of the population, leading to changes in patterns of morbidity and causes of mortality, with cancer being strongly represented. In the elderly population, oncological disease should be assessed differently than in younger patients. Indeed, the characteristics and the evolution of cancer, as well as patient care, vary with ageing. It is therefore essential to establish specific screening strategies and therapeutic support, by integrating this population in clinical trials, and taking into account the global needs of the elderly patient.