Breast Cancer Awareness in Aging Adults

Uncategorized  |  October 23, 2017

Breast cancer awareness is one of the most crucial elements of prevention and early detection of the disease. The month of October is designated to bringing awareness and reminding people of the importance of annual screenings and self-exams. Breast cancer presents several risk factors of which you should be aware.

Associated Risks

According to research, there are essential risks factors that can cause a woman’s chance of getting breast cancer to increase. Many of the factors are commonly known, while others may not be so familiar. Here are a few risk factors:

• Adolescent weight gain

• Late menopause

• No pregnancies

• Late pregnancies

• Increased breast tissue density

• Juvenile chest radiation

• Oral contraceptives (long-term use)

• Post-menopausal weight gain

Keep in mind that most senior women with one or more of the above do not develop breast cancer.

Screening Expectations

The time leading up to the screening can be filled with anxiety, fear and sometimes fear. It helps to have a better concept of what to expect from the screening. The process is a simple one and once you’ve scheduled the appointment, the hard part is over. A screening consists of a mammogram, which is an x-ray of the breast area. It can detect cancer prior to the development of a lump, pain or other physical signs. X-ray technicians usually perform mammograms in a private room or area. Precautions are taken to ensure that the process is as comfortable as possible to prevent unnecessary stress or delays in the exam.

Clothing is removed from the waste up and a gown is supplied to wear while being screened. The breasts are placed between two plastic plates, and once an x-ray is taken of each breast, the screening process is complete. This part of the process is a bit uncomfortable for most, but it is extremely necessary to ensure that the tissue surrounding the breast is flattened to provide a clear image. If there are no issues with the results of the screening, a letter is usually received within 30 days of the initial screening. If the doctor has any concerns regarding the results of the screening, seniors are usually called to return to the office within 5 days for additional testing.

Take a family member or home health care professional along for support during the exam.

Treatment Process

When breast cancer is detected, stage is determined and a treatment plan is devised by the medical team. Options or suggested plans are discussed with the patient and any questions can be asked and addressed at this time.

Common breast cancer treatments include:

• Surgery

• Radiation therapy

• Hormone therapy

• Chemotherapy

The medical team considers the stage of the cancer, clinical history, and preferences or all involved before moving forward with prescribed treatment. Aging is a leading factor in abnormal changes in cells. Older women have a greater chance of developing breast cancer. Therefore, it is vital that seniors keep all doctor’s appointments and schedule annual mammograms. Family members and home health care professionals can be especially helpful during treatments. If your loved one can benefit from these home health care services we offer in Victoria, BC, contact us today or call (778) 402-2175.

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