Breast cancer risks in women increase as you age, and the median age for a diagnosis is 62. However, screening via mammogram can improve early detection rates and the survival rate for breast cancer.
In this article, we'll reflect on the breast cancer risk by age and why it's important for seniors in Spring, TX, to have regular mammograms. We'll also explain some of the other ways you can lower your risk of breast cancer and when to speak to a health professional.
Age is a factor in many cancers, including breast cancer. Seniors are the most impacted age group, and risks increase for women over the age of 55. This happens because our bodies become less effective at repairing damaged DNA as we age, and it's this damage that can cause cells to mutate and grow into tumors.
Seniors are also more at risk of other health complications, which can make it harder to handle the treatment and recovery process for breast cancer. In addition, symptoms of chronic conditions could mask some cancer symptoms, like fatigue.
All this underscores the importance of regular screening for breast cancer in women 55 and over.
When you reach your senior years, cancer worries can feel a little overwhelming at times. Fortunately, breakthroughs in science and medicine have led to excellent methods for detecting cancer in its earliest stages.
So why does early detection matter? Put simply, it can lead to higher survival rates.
Cancer tumors grow, and smaller tumors are easier to treat and often less aggressive. It means treatments like radiotherapy have a higher chance of reducing the tumor and preventing it from spreading and metastasizing. It also means less invasive treatment and a swifter and easier recovery period.
If you are a senior in Spring, TX, consult with your healthcare provider first about screening options. Many community health centers and hospitals offer cancer screening services, including mammograms.
These are run by trained professionals who go to great lengths to make breast cancer screening friendly, supportive, and less overwhelming for seniors.
Each October marks Breast Cancer Awareness Month, so it's also an opportunity to attend seminars on health education in Spring, TX. You'll find out more about the benefits of mammograms as well as other checks you can do at home for early breast cancer detection.
While age can be a risk of breast cancer, it's not the only risk. Lifestyle and health factors play a part in many cancers, including breast cancer. Here are some of the ways you can lower your risk of getting a breast cancer diagnosis:
Choosing to live a healthy lifestyle also reduces your chances of developing other chronic diseases like diabetes. Hence, it's always worth being mindful of your health when you reach your senior years. Health habits will keep your body strong, putting you in a better position to recover well if you receive a breast cancer diagnosis.
For some women, genetics can play a role in raising their risk of cancer. That's because some women have an inherited gene mutation called BRCA. Women who have a direct relative with the disease, like a daughter, sister, or mother, should consider genetic testing to see if they have this mutation.
This is also why it's crucial to speak with your healthcare provider about screening, as they can assess your family history and use that information to determine your individual risk factors by age. They may also be able to offer genetic testing to ease any concerns about familial risks.
While lifestyle, genetics, and age play a part in breast cancer risks, age remains the most significant factor.Most breast cancer diagnoses are in women over the age of 55, and that risk begins to increase as you get older.
If you have other risk factors, such as genetics, you'll still have a higher risk once you enter the senior age bracket. This explains why regular screening is crucial to all seniors.
When you reach your senior years, you never need to think that health issues are an inevitability. It is never too late to make some positive lifestyle choices and lower your risk of breast cancer.
If you are in a senior living community, find out what activities are available on site for you to try. Simple daily habits can help you maintain your health. Try walking, yoga, or a low-impact chair aerobics class.
You can also discuss a personalized nutrition plan with your care team to enhance your overall health.
If you haven't begun screening yet, make an appointment with your healthcare practitioner. They can assess your individual risk factors, including age.
For most women over the age of 55, it's recommended to have mammograms for breast cancer screening every two years, and possibly every year if you are in a higher-risk group.
Keeping a consistent schedule with your breast cancer screenings is the best way to protect yourself and ensure that you get an early diagnosis.
If you are a senior living in Spring, TX, it's important that you understand the breast cancer risk by age. If you haven't already done so, now is the ideal time to consult with your healthcare professional and schedule a screening.
In your senior years, you'll also be thinking about moving to a community where your health comes first.
At The Conservatory at Champion Forest, you'll find a stunning environment in a calming, woodland retreat, helping you enjoy all the outdoors has to offer for your health. Book a tour with us today to find out more about our on-site amenities.