SHARES
When you hit the 40s, you really need to start being vigilant about your health. At this point in life, breast cancer rates start to increase with one third of breast cancers in Malaysia diagnosed in women in their 40s. Cysts are the most common type of breast lump seen in women during their 40s, although cysts can develop at other ages as well. These fluid- filled sacs aren’t cancerous, but they can be painful. Doctors can drain or surgically remove them. Cellular hanges like atypical ductal hyperplasia may also begin during this decade. These abnormal cells in the milk ducts increase a woman’s chances of breast cancer.
In addition to eating right, exercising and limiting stress, doing what you were doing in your 20s & 30s, remember to do the following:
Breast Health in Your 40s
- Schedule an annual mammogram and clinical exam.
Women age 40 and older should get a mammogram and a clinical breast exam every year. Also, stay familiar with your own breasts: If you notice any changes, tell your doctor about them immediately. Chances are good that any changes you notice, such as fibrocystic breast changes, are harmless, but it’s still essential to have anything new or unusual checked out.
- Avoid unnecessary exposure to cancer-causing substances.
This includes radiation and chemicals. Make sure that any physician who orders an X-ray for you, especially high dose types like CT scans, knows how many other X-ray you’ve had. Unless it’s an emergency situation, you should ask if there are alternative examinations for your situation, such as an ultrasound or MRI. Your doctor will help you weigh the relative risk of momentary exposure to radiation versus not having an X-ray or CT scan that may be medically necessary. Scientists have identified over 200 potential breast carcinogens. Opt for foods and products containing mostly natural ingredients.
So what happens when you reach your 50s?
As menopause hits, the risk of developing breast cancer continues to rise which is why women in their 50s need to be more vigilant than ever about breast health. After menopause, breasts become less firm, less tender and less lumpy. While harmless lumps may come and go with the menstrual cycle in younger women, any new lump that appears after menopause requires a doctor’s prompt attention.
In addition to continuing to receive biannual mammograms, eating right and staying active, there are a few additional habits you can pick up to reduce your risk of a breast cancer diagnosis.
Breast Health in Your 50s
A healthy weight is a body mass index (BMI) of 25 per cent or less. Research has shown that being overweight or obese (specifically in post-menopausal women) increases your risk, even if you put the weight on as an adult. Additionally, overweight women had lower breast cancer survival rates and a greater chance of more aggressive disease than average weight or underweight women.
Hormone replacement therapy definitely increases breast cancer risk, although for women with major menopausal issues, doctors at the Fred Hutchison Cancer recommend limited courses of HRT for no more than five years
To get yourselves checked during the Pink October campaign by Columbia Asia Hospital Petaling Jaya, check this!
Source: InfoMed Malaysia
by Qian
Qian's interest in healthcare industry came about after her father was diagnosed with bladder cancer. This experience has led her to become a strong believer in empowering individuals to take charge of their own health. View all articles by Qian.
