It’s October, and you know what that means – fall is here! It’s time for pumpkin spice everything and lots of orange and black decor. But it’s also time to “think pink,” as October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
Did you know that breast cancer is more common in women over the age of 45? In fact, for women with no family history and no other known risk factors, just being over the age of 60 can be a contributing factor in developing the disease. That’s why it is essential to pay attention to signs or symptoms that may develop and take action as soon as possible. In this blog, we’ll share some of the risk factors associated with a diagnosis, as well as common signs and symptoms to look for, and the types of treatments available.
Common Risk Factors
There are a variety of risk factors that can contribute to a breast cancer diagnosis. These range from those you cannot control, to environmental or lifestyle-related factors you may be able to manage. Here are some of the most common risk factors to be aware of:
Out of Your Control
- Age – Risk increases after age 55.
- Gender – It is possible for men to develop breast cancer, but women are most at risk.
- Genetic Markers – Mutations on certain genes account for 5-10% of cases. Genetic counseling and testing can help identify these risks.
- Family or Personal History – Having a close blood relative with breast cancer, or having had it yourself in one breast, significantly increases the risk of developing breast cancer.
- Race and Ethnicity – White women are at greatest risk, with African-American women close behind. Hispanic, Asian, and Native American women have a lower risk overall.
Lifestyle Factors Within Your Control
- Drinking Alcohol – Women who consume 2-3 drinks a day have a 20% higher risk of developing breast cancer.
- Limited Physical Activity – Regular activity (2-3 hours a week) can reduce the risk for breast cancer in women past menopause.
- Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) – All forms of HRT carry an increased risk for breast cancer.
- Being Overweight or Obese – Being overweight after menopause can increase risk.
Signs and Symptoms
The most common symptoms of breast cancer include:
- The development of lumps in the breast or under the arm (in the armpit area).
- Changes in the way the breast looks (e.g., the breast getting larger or smaller) or feels, including tingling, burning, pain, or other sensations.
- Changes in the appearance of the skin on the breast, including redness and dimpling.
- Changes in the appearance of the nipple, including any discharge.
If you notice any of these symptoms, you should contact your healthcare provider immediately. While they do not guarantee a cancer diagnosis, early detection is the best way to a cure, so they should be evaluated as soon as possible.
It is also important to note that some women may not experience any signs or symptoms of breast cancer and still receive a positive diagnosis. This is why the American Cancer Society recommends regular screening mammograms every two years in women 55 and over unless otherwise directed by a doctor based on personal risk factors.
Treatment Options for Seniors
As a result of other age-related chronic conditions commonly experienced in the elderly population, it is sometimes challenging to treat breast cancer in older adults. Treatments may interfere with medications being taken on a regular basis and certain surgical options may not be safe or appropriate. The most common treatments include the following:
- Chemotherapy – Drugs administered by pill, injection, topical creams, or an IV (intravenous drip).
- Hormone Therapy – Hormones administered to block hormone receptors present in certain types of breast cancer.
- Immunotherapy – Medications given to boost the immune system to recognize and destroy cancer cells.
- Lumpectomy – Surgical removal of only the cancerous tissue within the breast, leaving the breast intact.
- Mastectomy – Surgical removal of the entire breast and, sometimes, surrounding tissue.
- Radiation – Focused, high-energy rays used to destroy cancer cells.
- Targeted Drug Therapy – Medications that target specific proteins in breast cancer cells to slow down the growth of the cells or destroy them completely.
There are many factors to be taken into consideration when determining the best treatment plan – which may include one or more of these – so it is important to share your full medical history when speaking with a healthcare provider.Facing a breast cancer diagnosis or treatment can be scary under the best of circumstances, but you don’t need to face it alone. The certified care professionals at Granny Nannies of Miami can offer in-home care and support throughout the process with a variety of services catering to your specific needs. From companion care to 24-hour home care, we are here for you