Breast Cancer Prevention Tips for Seniors in North Richland Hills

Breast cancer prevention is paramount for all women, but it is crucial for women's health for older adults. With breast cancer prevention tips, such as regular self-examinations and a healthy diet, you can reduce your chances of developing a potentially deadly disease. 

Did you know that breast cancer accounts for nearly 30% of all new cancer diagnosesannually among women in the United States? This study from Breastcancer.org highlights the prevalence of breast cancer amongst women and how important early diagnosis and prevention are to successful outcomes. 

For seniors in North Richland Hills, TX, preventing breast cancer or catching it early can mean the difference between life and death. In this guide, we will cover the types of breast cancer, symptoms to watch for, and prevention methods to implement in your everyday life. 

Types of Breast Cancer

It is important to know about the types of breast cancer that are most common, so you know which symptoms to monitor as you age. Some of the most prevalent types of breast cancer include: 

• Invasive ductal carcinoma
• Hormone receptor-positive
• Ductal carcinoma in situ
• HER2-enriched breast cancer
• Invasive lobular carcinoma
• Inflammatory breast cancer

Breast Cancer Signs and Symptoms

Some symptoms of breast cancer may be prominent, while others might be less identifiable. Check for: 

• Redness and rashes
• Dimpling or rippling of the skin
• Nipple discharge when not breastfeeding 
• New lumps under the armpit or breasts
• Pain or irritation
• Thickening of the skin or tissue

How Can You Prevent Breast Cancer Naturally? 

There isn't a way to eliminate the risk of developing breast cancer. However, a regimen of prevention strategies can ease your anxiety and increase peace of mind. 

What Foods Reduce the Risk of Cancer?

A healthy diet overall can drastically reduce your chances of developing cancer. Some foods to add to your meal plan include: 

• Nuts and seeds
• Fruits and vegetables
• Legumes
• Whole grains

Avoid excessive alcohol consumption and overly processed options. An occasional sweet or treat is fine, but a heavy reliance on these types of foods will often do more harm than good. 

Preventive Mastectomy 

It may seem like a drastic measure, but preventive mastectomies are becoming an increasingly popular option among women who have a high risk for breast cancer. A preventive mastectomy involves removing one or both of the breasts before tumors develop. 

Women who receive preventive mastectomies typically make the decision following genetic testing or when various family members have succumbed to breast cancer. The BRCA gene mutation, in particular, makes one especially prone to developing breast cancer. 

Emotional wellness and peace of mind are just as important as physical health. A preventive mastectomy may be the best solution if you have an increased risk of breast cancer later in life. 

Conducting Self-Examinations

Early detection is crucial to increasing your chances of surviving breast cancer. Self-exams should be done regularly, instead of just waiting for your next mammogram. 

A self-examination typically involves:

• Seeing if your breasts have visually changed in size, shape, or color 
• Checking for lumps, knots, or thicker tissue 
• Feeling your lymph nodes for swollen tissue that could indicate the cancer has spread 
• Noting unfamiliar feelings in your breasts, such as itching and inflammation

Contacting Your Doctor With Concerns

If you have any concerns regarding breast cancer, contact your doctor as soon as possible. It is better to be told that your worry was a false alarm than to brush off symptoms and get a diagnosis much later. 

Schedule mammograms as far in advance as you can to avoid waiting for extended periods. For women aged 40 to 74, the current recommendation is a mammogram every two years. The frequency increases to once every year after turning 75.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Correlation Between Cancer Risk and Aging? 

Unfortunately, the risk of developing breast cancer increases with age, particularly for senior women. The CDC reports that the majority of breast cancer diagnoses occur in women aged 50 or older. Increased occurrence in older folks can be caused by: 

• Genetics: Genes such as the BRCA mutation are known to increase the risk of developing ovarian and breast cancers.
• History of noncancerous breast conditions: Previous issues with breast tissue can lead to a cancer diagnosis later in life.
• Earlier breast cancer: Having cancer beforehand significantly increases the chances of a recurrence.
• Family history: You are more likely to get breast cancer if a close family member had it, such as a mother or grandmother.
• Dense breast tissue: Denser breasts make tumors more difficult to spot on mammograms, and lumps more difficult to find during self-examinations, which can lead to a delayed diagnosis.

How Can I Improve Senior Health Awareness Around Breast Cancer?

Ask local oncologists who specialize in breast cancer to speak at your assisted living community. They can answer questions and impart tips for how to stay healthy and identify breast cancer symptoms early. 

If you or a loved one has suffered from breast cancer, tell your story to others if you feel comfortable doing so. Personal experiences may motivate the women in your life to take better care of themselves and focus on cancer prevention by cultivating a healthier lifestyle. 

What Are Other Tips for Independent Living Wellness? 

Here are some other tips to improve your quality of life in your retirement years: 

• Practice good sleep hygiene 
• Make time for family and friends 
• Get fresh air as often as possible 
• Try to maintain independence 
• Communicate with your medical team
• Avoid excessive screen time 

Use These Breast Cancer Prevention Tips

Although you cannot eliminate the risk of breast cancer, following breast cancer prevention tips can drastically reduce your chances of developing it. With this guide, you can maintain an active and healthy lifestyle and enjoy fulfilling retirement years. 

At Morada Meadow Lakes, our dedicated staff is committed to improving the quality of life for all of our residents. Through programs such as health and fitness programs designed for seniors, to fun activities and game nights, our residents thrive in our community located in North Richland Hills, TX.

Are you interested in learning more about what Morada Meadow Lakes has to offer? Contact us today, or visit our beautiful location in person to see it for yourself.