What Older Women Should Know About Breast Cancer
Understanding Breast Cancer in Older Women
Breast cancer is among the most prevalent cancers affecting women. The two most significant risk factors are being female and increasing age. It’s especially important for older women to stay informed and proactive during Breast Cancer Awareness initiatives.
What is Breast Cancer?
Cancer refers to a group of diseases in which abnormal cells grow uncontrollably and invade healthy tissues. In breast cancer, these cells develop in breast tissue. There are various types, including ductal carcinoma, inflammatory breast cancer, and metastatic breast cancer.
Key Risk Factors for Breast Cancer
Aside from being female and older, here are other factors that may increase risk:
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Having your first child at a later age (35+) or not having children
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Dense breast tissue
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A family history of breast or ovarian cancer
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Prior abnormalities in breast tissue or previous breast cancer
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Hormonal factors, lifestyle, and aging
How Breast Cancer Is Diagnosed
If signs or symptoms suggest breast cancer, doctors may use:
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Mammograms
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Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
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Breast ultrasound
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Biopsy
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Laboratory tests
Early detection greatly improves outcomes, especially in older women.
Prevention & Early Detection: Tips for Women 55+
To reduce risk and catch cancer early, these practices can help:
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Get a mammogram every other year
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Monitor for changes in breasts and report any to your physician immediately
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Discuss your personal risk with your doctor
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Ask if preventive medications like tamoxifen or raloxifene are appropriate
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Maintain a healthy weight and diet
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Stay physically active
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Avoid hormone replacement therapy after menopause unless advised by your doctor
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Do not smoke
Treatment Considerations for Seniors
Women aged 65 and older account for a significant portion of new breast cancer diagnoses. However, treatment decisions for this age group must account for additional health conditions and physical resilience.
Common treatment options include:
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Surgery
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Radiation therapy
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Chemotherapy
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Hormone therapy
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Targeted drug therapies
Because side effects and risks may be higher in older adults, it’s vital to have open discussions with your care team. Ask questions to understand the benefits and risks of each treatment in your specific situation.
Contact Us
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248-997-1105
100 W Big Beaver Rd suite 200 Troy MI, 48084