Breast Cancer Awareness Tips for Seniors in Longview
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Breast cancer awareness is a staple of senior health and well-being. By knowing the signs of breast cancer and how you can lower your risk, you can maintain a fulfilling lifestyle with the appropriate knowledge and senior health education.
Did you know that the median age for breast cancer diagnosis in women is 62, according to the American Cancer Society? This statistic highlights the prevalence of breast cancer in seniors, making early detection for seniors in Longview, TX, even more crucial.
How can you identify potential breast cancer and reduce your risk of developing it in your golden years? Read on to find out.
What Is Breast Cancer Awareness Month?
Breast Cancer Awareness Month occurs annually, during the month of October. The month focuses on several factors surrounding breast cancer, such as:
- The celebration of breast cancer survivors
- Honoring those who have died as a result of breast cancer
- Educating others about the risk and warning signs of breast cancer
- Advocating for additional funding for research and treatment methods
- Raising money to support those afflicted with breast cancer
What Are the Five Warning Signs of Breast Cancer?
How do you know if you might have breast cancer? There are several key signs and symptoms to watch for when you conduct your regular self-exams.
1. General Changes in Breast Appearance
Look in the mirror and see if anything is immediately noticeable about your breasts. While the size and shape of breasts can change, especially in your senior years, take note of anything abnormal.
2. New Lumps or Knots
Feel the inside of your breast for lumps or knots. Extend the self-exam to the back of your breast and your armpit, along with any surrounding tissue.
3. Changes in Skin Appearance or Texture
Breast cancer can cause major changes in your skin. Look for dimpling or rippling of the skin texture, including the nipple. Some types of breast cancer cause an aggressive red rash to appear on the breast tissue.
4. New Pain or Discomfort
Have you noticed breast pain recently that seems to be a new development? This may be due to breast cancer. Another common symptom is itchiness, which may accompany a rash.
5. Nipple Changes
Many breast cancers begin in the nipple, so this is the first line of defense when catching breast cancer early. Look for signs such as:
- Inverted nipple tissue
- Changes in nipple texture
- Pain or redness
- Discharge
What Are Five Ways to Prevent Breast Cancer?
Breast cancer isn't completely preventable. However, there are actions you can take in your everyday life to reduce your risk:
1. Regular Testing
Testing regularly is crucial for prompt breast cancer diagnosis. Catching a tumor in stage one versus a later stage can be the difference between life and death, especially for seniors.
Try to conduct self-exams at least once a month. For most seniors, mammograms are recommended once every two years, although they may be more frequent for those with other risk factors.
2. Maintain a Healthy Diet
Focus on nourishing your body with nutritious meals that are healthy and filling. At Parkview on Hollybrook, our chefs specialize in preparing nutritionally dense, delicious meals for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
3. Quit Smoking and Tobacco Use
Smoking and tobacco use can both significantly increase your risk of developing any type of cancer, including breast cancer. Quit as soon as possible to avoid further risk.
4. Get Genetic Testing
If breast cancer runs in your family, get genetic testing done to see if you have the BRCA gene. The BRCA gene heightens the risk of developing breast cancer.
5. Limit Alcohol Consumption
Try to cut back on alcohol consumption. Having a drink or two occasionally as a treat will also make it more special.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why Are Seniors Most at Risk for Developing Breast Cancer?
Seniors, both men and women, have a much higher risk of developing breast cancer than any other age demographic, notes the Breast Cancer Research Foundation. There are several factors that contribute to this prevalence.
Elderly folks do not always respond to treatment. For those in their golden years, treatment options are often weighed against quality of life. Harsh treatment may not be the right choice for someone much older, as it could hasten the end of their life, rather than destroy cancer cells.
Additionally, newer drugs and treatment innovations are often not tested on the older population, leaving a treatment gap and a lack of knowledge about how seniors will respond to those treatments.
What Are Some Resources to Learn More About Breast Cancer?
Many nonprofit organizations have the express goal of breast cancer education. You can join an educational seminar or volunteer with a local charity to learn more about how breast cancer affects the senior population.
Social media is also a powerful tool to connect with others in similar circumstances and find valuable advice. Consider joining a breast cancer support group in your area or following the pages of experienced medical professionals and nonprofit organizations.
How Do I Talk to My Doctor About My Breast Cancer Risk?
Be honest with your medical provider about your feelings regarding breast cancer risk. It is important to be fully transparent and push for tests that you may need based on various risk factors.
Ask your doctor if it's possible to receive genetic testing and determine whether you have the BRCA gene, which significantly elevates your risk of developing breast cancer. You can also advocate for more frequent mammograms, so they can catch potential issues earlier, while treatment has more of a chance of success.
Senior Health Education at Parkview on Hollybrook
Breast cancer awareness is vital for all demographics, but especially for seniors. With risk factor information and screening guidelines, early detection for elderly folks is easier than ever.
At Parkview on Hollybrook, breast cancer prevention is one of the many causes that our residents can become involved with. We focus on the health and well-being of residents, with exclusive programs like health and fitness resources and chef-prepared dining, to improve your quality of life.
Are you ready to discover all that Parkview on Hollybrook has to offer? Reach out to us today to learn more about our beautiful community in Longview, TX. We can't wait to meet you!