The ESO Advanced Course on Cancer in the Elderly took place in Liverpool-UK, 29-30 April 2004 under the chair of Riccardo A. Audisio and Matti A. Aapro. This successful event gathered 82 participants from 17 countries; posters were displayed presenting original research data, and 19 lecturers updated the audience on the latest findings regarding basic science, prevention, early detection, diagnosis, treatment options, as well as the social impact of this frequent malignancy. This Meeting Highlights collects the panelists views; it is intended to update on the cutting edge of the present knowledge, in order to improve our understanding of malignant disease affecting senior patients, and eventually to optimise their management.