Provide names of other journalists involved.
No other journalists were involved
List date(s) this work was published or aired.
Jul-12
Provide a brief synopsis of the story or stories, including any significant findings.
A comprehensive look at whether cancer treatment is appropiate for older patients. The reporter found that doctors assess patients’ physiological state, rather than rely just on chonological age, to determine whether they will be able to tolerate challenging cancer treatments.
Explain types of documents, data or Internet resources used. Were FOI or public records act requests required? How did this affect the work?
Statistical research targeting New Jersey’s elderly as well as looking at the national treatment protocal for older patients through the National Cancer Institue.
Explain types of human sources used.
Interviews with elderly patients who have gone through cancer treatment. Interviews with New Jersey oncologists who treat seniors.
Results:
No unexpected results.
Follow-up (if any). Have you run a correction or clarification on the report or has anyone come forward to challenge its accuracy? If so, please explain.
No corrections or challenges
Advice to other journalists planning a similar story or project.
Personal stories are most important in an article of this nature. Showing patients in their 80s coming out of difficult cancer treatments not just intact, but back to living active lives helps support the the discovery that just because you’re old doesn’t mean you can fight a cancer diagnosis the same as a younger patient.