Breast Cancer Awareness for Seniors in Menomonee Falls
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Breast cancer awareness is integral for seniors to remain happy and healthy. By staying aware of the signs of breast cancer and practicing tactics for prevention, you can lower your risk and cultivate a fulfilling lifestyle in your golden years.
The National Breast Cancer Foundation reports that a woman receives a breast cancer diagnosis approximately every two minutes. This news can be devastating, and hundreds of thousands of women in the United States undergo the same conversation every year.
For seniors in Menomonee Falls, WI, the key is cancer risk education. Read on to learn more.
What Is the Official Breast Cancer Day?
Although there isn't an official Breast Cancer Day in the United States, October 13 is widely referred to as "Metastatic Breast Cancer Awareness Day." The day focuses on spreading public awareness and health screening reminders for those at risk of developing metastatic breast cancer.
What Are Five Warning Signs of Breast Cancer?
While aging and health issues tend to go hand in hand, it is important to keep an eye out for signs of breast cancer. Early detection is key to beginning treatment and avoiding further spread of cancer cells.
1. Nipple Changes
Nipple discharge and changes in your nipple appearance can be concerning. Check if your nipples are inverted or if the skin around your nipples changes in color or texture.
2. Changes in Breast Appearance
Look in the mirror regularly and check the appearance of your breasts. Although it is natural for breasts to change with age, you may spot an abnormality. Sudden changes in size and shape are concerning, along with color changes.
3. New Knots or Lumps
Feel the inside of your breast for lumps or knots. Hold your arm above your head to get the best access to all of the breast tissue. Extend your self-examination back to your armpit to ensure there are no lumps in your lymph nodes or armpit tissue.
4. Unexplained Pain
Do you find yourself feeling pain in your breast or chest area? This could be a sign of cancer. Take note of any activities that may have caused the pain, and if you can't find an explanation, visit your doctor.
5. Changes in Skin Texture
Changes in skin texture are very common with breast cancer. Feel the skin on and around your breasts for rippling or dimpling. Some types of cancer, such as inflammatory breast cancer, can cause redness and rashes as well.
What Are Five Ways to Prevent Breast Cancer?
Breast cancer isn't completely preventable, but there are steps you can take in your everyday life to lessen your chances of developing it. Here are some key changes to make to your lifestyle if you want to decrease your risk of breast cancer.
1. Exercise Regularly
For seniors, exercise isn't just optional; it is essential. Regular exercise has myriad benefits, such as fall prevention and maintaining a healthy cardiovascular system. Additionally, working out can combat symptoms of muscle weakness and bone loss that are common with aging.
2. Quit Smoking
Although smoking can be a great stress reliever, the damage of cigarettes and other tobacco products far outweighs the benefits. If you think you may have trouble quitting, consider getting help from your doctor in the form of medication or nicotine patches.
3. Get Genetic Testing
If breast cancer runs in your family, you must get tested for the BRCA gene. Once you receive the results, you may want to take more drastic actions, such as a mastectomy, to avoid the development of cancer.
4. Maintain Good Eating Habits
A healthy diet full of nutrient-rich, whole foods provides your body with the fuel to lead a healthy lifestyle. Limit processed foods and sweets.
5. Get Regular Cancer Screenings
Conduct regular self-screenings and visit the doctor as often as recommended for in-person screenings and mammograms. Catching problems early is essential for favorable treatment outcomes.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Do I Talk To My Doctor About Breast Cancer?
If you have symptoms that concern you, reach out to your doctor immediately. Let them know what you're experiencing and ask if you can come in for a cancer screening and a mammogram.
Ask your doctor for genetic testing if breast cancer runs in your family. Many insurers cover these services if there is a risk that you have the BRCA gene, which significantly increases your chances of developing breast or ovarian cancer.
Remember, since seniors have an elevated risk of breast cancer, regular screenings are essential. Advocate for yourself to ensure you get the support and reassurance that you need.
How Can I Educate Others About Breast Cancer Risk?
Participate in breast cancer awareness events during October. Wear a pink ribbon whenever possible so others are aware that you are advocating for breast cancer awareness and research.
Volunteer with local nonprofits or hospitals that specialize in women's health and breast cancer prevention. Attend workshops and seminars to learn more about ongoing research and efforts to find a cure.
What Are Other Senior Women's Wellness Tips?
Women's bodies undergo extensive changes during and after menopause, and even through their senior years. It is important to be aware of these changes and adapt accordingly.
The decline in estrogen during menopause causes many changes, such as vaginal dryness. Additionally, loss of flexibility in the bladder can cause incontinence in many women, which could lead to other conditions like urinary tract infections.
Always speak to your doctor if you are experiencing discomfort or other symptoms you're unsure about.
Breast Cancer Awareness at LakeHouse Menomonee
Breast cancer awareness is imperative for seniors to reduce risk and catch problems early. With this guide, you can be informed and discuss any concerns you may have with your doctor. You can also talk to others in your community about the importance of cancer risk education.
At LakeHouse Menomonee, we offer plenty of amenities and activities for our residents to cultivate a lifestyle focused on health and wellness. With three assisted living floor plans to choose from, our residents can enjoy privacy in a positive and enriching environment, with plenty of assisted living support.
Are you ready to learn more about our beautiful assisted living community? Reach out to us today with any questions you may have, or visit us in Menomonee Falls, WI, to see it for yourself. We can't wait to hear from you!