Breast cancer prevention for seniors focuses on healthy routines, regular screenings, and proactive steps. These include weight management, exercise, and limiting alcohol or hormone therapy use.
According to the American Cancer Society (ACS), breast cancer is the most common cancer in women in the US. It accounts for around 30% of all new female cancers each year.
The ACS says that the median age for a breast cancer diagnosis is 62, but many women receive one in their golden years. You don’t want this to ruin your retirement, so what breast cancer prevention tips in Gahanna, OH, can seniors use to ensure their later years are healthy and enjoyable? Read on to find out.
How Can You Prevent Breast Cancer Naturally?
One of the best ways to prevent breast cancer is to take good care of yourself, which can have other great health benefits too. So if you need tips on senior wellness in Gahanna, you’ve got them here.
First, you should maintain a healthy weight. Excess body fat (especially after menopause) increases estrogen production, and this is linked to a higher breast cancer risk.
On that note, you should eat a balanced diet and focus on breast cancer-preventing foods. This means prioritizing the following:
- Fruits
- Vegetables
- Whole grains
- Lean proteins
- Omega-3 fats
You should also avoid or reduce the intake of processed foods, sugars, and alcohol. Even small amounts of alcohol can raise your breast cancer risk, so have no more than one drink per day, if at all. In addition, stop smoking, as it weakens your immune system and can contribute to multiple types of cancer.
Staying physically active is helpful too. Even moderate activities can lower hormone levels, but you should aim for 150 minutes of activity weekly.
What Lowers Your Chance of Breast Cancer?
The above healthy aging advice can be extremely beneficial in preventing breast cancer, but there’s more you can do to proactively lower your risk. Steps include:
- Regular screenings (annual or biennial mammograms)
- Hormone therapy awareness
- Medication prevention
- Genetic counseling
- Chronic condition management
Healthy Routines for Seniors in Retirement
It’s essential to focus on daily routines that strengthen long-term health. Not only can these facilitate better well-being, but you’ll feel happier as well.
Ideas here are:
- Sticking to a consistent sleep schedule
- Incorporating stress-relief practices
- Scheduling preventive appointments
- Joining community wellness programs
- Staying socially engaged
The Role of Screenings in Breast Cancer Prevention
Early detection for older adults is absolutely key to effective treatment and survival. So one of our top cancer awareness tips is to follow screening guidelines.
Women over 65 should still get mammograms, unless advised otherwise by a doctor. On that note, if you have other health conditions, you should work with your doctor to balance screening needs with your overall wellness.
You should also keep up with self-exams. They’re not a substitute for mammograms, but if you’re familiar with your breast changes, then you can identify any concerns faster.
Proactive Steps for Breast Health in Later Life
There’s more to women’s health after 60 than being proactive about preventing breast cancer. By looking after your overall health, you can take charge of your breast health too.
First, you should create a personalized plan, especially if you’re in a senior living community. Your own risk will be different from that of other seniors, so a tailored prevention approach is best.
Also, stay informed on research, as new prevention strategies and treatments come out regularly. Keep up-to-date with your vaccinations too, such as:
- Flu
- Pneumonia
- Shingles
Lastly, maintain a healthy gut by getting plenty of probiotics and fiber. These support immune system regulation, and this can help with cancer prevention.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Does Breastfeeding Earlier in Life Affect Breast Cancer Risk in Seniors?
Yes. In general, women who breastfed in their younger years have a lower lifetime risk of breast cancer. This protective effect lasts, even in your senior years.
At What Age Should Seniors Stop Getting Mammograms?
There’s no universal cutoff for mammograms. Typically, it’s recommended that seniors continue receiving these exams as long as they’re in good health and are expected to live for at least 10 more years.
Do Men Need to Worry About Breast Cancer in Retirement?
Yes, anyone can develop breast cancer, even men. It may be rare in men, but risk factors include age, obesity, and family history.
If you notice any unusual breast changes, you should report them to your doctor.
How Does Family History Impact Breast Cancer Risk in Seniors?
According to the CDC, 5% to 10% of breast cancers are hereditary, meaning that a strong family history may increase your risk. However, genetics aren’t the only factor.
You should ask about genetic counseling and always continue regular screenings.
Can Certain Medications Increase Breast Cancer Risk in Older Adults?
Yes, more specifically, long-term hormone replacement therapy and some immunosuppressive drugs may raise your risk. You should always review your prescriptions with your healthcare provider.
Is Breast Cancer More Aggressive in Seniors?
Not necessarily, as some breast cancers in older adults progress more slowly. However, treatment decisions depend on:
- Type
- Stage
- Overall health
What Role Does Mental Health Play in Breast Cancer Prevention?
When you have chronic stress and depression, these factors can weaken immunity and affect your hormone balance. This means that mental health plays an important role in breast cancer prevention, so make sure to prioritize it.
Utilize These Breast Cancer Prevention Tips
The occurrence of breast cancer is quite high, especially for women, so you’ll want to do your best to stay healthy and keep it at bay. With our breast cancer prevention tips, you’ll have a better fighting chance, and you’ll experience better overall health too.
So if you haven’t been doing so, take good care of your body by maintaining a healthy weight, eating a wholesome diet, and getting regular exercise. And don’t forget to schedule regular mammograms, even if you’re over 65.
Want to learn more about senior living in Gahanna, OH? Then get in touch with us today. Rittenhouse Village Gahanna is a recently renovated community and offers our residents a maintenance-free lifestyle with complimentary housekeeping and maintenance services.
