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.
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:
Some symptoms of breast cancer may be prominent, while others might be less identifiable. Check for:
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.
A healthy diet overall can drastically reduce your chances of developing cancer. Some foods to add to your meal plan include:
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.
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.
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:
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.
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:
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.
Here are some other tips to improve your quality of life in your retirement years:
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.