Breast Cancer Prevention Tips for Seniors in The Woodlands
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Regardless of age, there are things you can do to find breast cancer early or prevent it altogether. Regular cancer screenings and a healthy lifestyle are the best ways to invest in wellness.
According to the National Cancer Institute, women ages 70 and older have a 1 in 24 chance of being diagnosed with breast cancer. Your chances of developing breast cancer increase as you age.
That's why it's so important to understand your risk of breast cancer and follow the best healthy habits for older adults. At the Conservatory at Alden Bridge in beautiful Woodlands, TX, we value senior health education. The health and wellness of every resident is a top priority.
Here are some key breast cancer prevention tips for seniors.
What Can I Do to Prevent Breast Cancer as a Senior Adult?
As you age, it's important to invest in your health. This includes taking care of yourself, following early detection tips, and scheduling regular checkups. Early detection of breast cancer is key to long-term survival. Finding it early results in more treatment options, fewer extreme treatments, and better outcomes.
Unfortunately, there's no foolproof method for preventing breast cancer. Your best defense is knowing how to reduce your risks. Knowing your risk of the disease and following healthy habits for older adults is key to a longer, healthier life.
Breast Cancer Symptoms
If you notice any changes in the look or feel of your breasts, see your doctor. Some common signs of breast cancer include:
- Swelling in or around the breast
- Lump in your breast or armpit
- Skin irritation
- Skin dimpling
- Inverted nipple
- Discharge from the nipple
- Nipple or breast pain
What Can I Do to Lower My Risk of Breast Cancer?
Unfortunately, you cannot eliminate all risk for breast cancer. The best thing you can do is be aware of your body and note any changes that occur. Perform breast self-exams monthly and look for any unusual symptoms, such as lumps, irritation, or dimpling.
If you notice an abnormality, schedule an appointment with your doctor. Cancer awareness for women's health in aging begins with knowledge of the disease. Some key steps for mitigating your risks include:
Schedule Annual Mammograms
Self-exams are essential, but don't forget the value of regular mammograms. This is the best technology available to detect breast cancer early. Ask your doctor about your risk of developing breast cancer and the best screening methods for your health needs.
Exercise Regularly
Physical activity is essential for every age. It can help you retain your mobility, maintain a healthy weight, and stay strong. Aerobic activities, such as walking, yoga, swimming, and dancing, are heart-healthy exercises that strengthen the body and improve circulation.
Lightweight lifting can help build strength and improve mobility. Exercise can be fun with a partner, small group, or class. The goal is to find activities that you enjoy and make them a part of your everyday health routine.
Watch Your Weight
Being overweight can increase your risk of breast cancer. If you're having trouble losing weight, talk to your doctor about a healthy exercise and diet plan. If possible, try to walk more and sit less. Eating fewer calories, watching your portion sizes, and increasing your physical activity may help you lose weight and feel your best.
Drink Less Alcohol
Avoiding alcohol altogether is the safest decision. If you want to drink, do so in moderation. Drinking too much alcohol can increase your risk of breast cancer.
For women, the recommended alcohol intake is one drink per day. That equals five ounces of wine, 1.5 ounces of a distilled spirit, or 12 ounces of beer.
Reduce Hormone Therapy
Some types of hormone therapy, including estrogen and progestin, may increase the risk of breast cancer in some women. A family history of breast cancer can increase this risk.
Some women can manage mild post-menopausal symptoms without the use of hormones, but others need hormone therapy due to more severe symptoms. Consult your doctor about the risks of hormone therapy to determine what treatments are best for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Older Women Get Breast Cancer?
A common misconception is that breast cancer is more common in younger to middle-aged women. The truth is that your risk for the disease increases as you get older. Older women need regular mammograms and breast exams. No matter your age, it's a good idea to ask your doctor about the best screening methods and timeline for your health needs.
Am I Less Likely to Get Breast Cancer If I Don't Have a Family History?
A family history of breast cancer does increase your risk of the disease. However, most women who are diagnosed with breast cancer have no family historyof it. Don't assume you aren't at risk if a close family member hasn't been diagnosed in the past. Some other risk factors include:
- Lifestyle
- General health
- Weight
- Hormonal changes
Be sure to schedule regular checkups and mammograms, regardless of family history.
How Safe Are Mammograms?
Some people believe that mammograms are dangerous because they emit radiation during the screening process. Although radiation is involved, it's minimal.
Mammograms are considered safe and the best way to detect early-stage breast cancer. The benefits of finding the disease early far outweigh any risks of screening. If you have questions or concerns about the safety of mammograms, speak to your doctor about any potential risks.
Breast Cancer Prevention Tips for Older Adults
Although you can't eliminate all the risk, there are breast cancer prevention tips that can mitigate your chances of developing the disease. Following medical guidelines, including getting annual mammograms, exercising regularly, and maintaining your weight, is the best way to invest in your future health.
At the Woodlands Senior Living, we know the value of prevention. Our residents' health and happiness are top priorities. If you're thinking about a move to an independent living community, you will love our fun social events, wellness center, heated pool and spa, restaurant-style dining, and so much more.
Contact the Conservatory at Alden Bridge today to learn more or schedule a tour.