Breast Cancer Risk by Age: Insights for Waxahachie Seniors

In summary:

• Your age increases the likelihood of you developing breast cancer, with most diagnoses occurring after 50.
• The risk of cancer rises steadily into the seventies, necessitating regular mammograms.
• Stay active and moderate your alcohol while maintaining a healthy weight to lower your risk of developing cancer.

Morada Waxahachie, located in Waxahachie, Texas, is situated near several local parks and faith centers, providing a comfortable daily life and opportunities for social connection. These are both things that are essential in reducing the risk of various forms of cancer, but the truth is that, in breast cancer, risk by age is one of the biggest influences on developing the disease.

There are also other factors. It may seem obvious that the main risk of developing breast cancer includes "being a woman," alongside age, according to the CDC, but as thousands of men each year develop it too, it's important not to discount it. Read on to learn early detection tips, maintain your breast health awareness, and keep yourself safe by discovering the connections between aging and prevention. 

Does Age Increase Risk of Breast Cancer?

Getting older is one of the strongest factors associated with an increased risk of cancer. Most cases of cancer are found in those aged fifty and older, with the peak at around seventy years of age.

The tendency also seems to increase throughout one's senior years, even without a family history of the condition. Therefore, ensure that you seek help from a supportive community or a healthcare provider, even if you simply suspect you may have developed a growth.

At What Age Do Most Breast Cancers Occur?

Despite most breast cancers happening between 50 and 70, a meaningful number do occur under that age. These will be treated with the same seriousness as those discovered later.

However, your doctor may consider your age, along with many other factors related to senior women's health, such as your exercise habits, when determining the best course of action for you.

Is Breast Cancer Less Aggressive As You Age?

A person's body and biology tend to adjust as they age. Hormone receptors and the immune system are two areas that are particularly prone to this. Both of these elements can influence how a cancer develops, as well as its response to treatment.

For example, a large share of breast cancers are oestrogen-receptor positive (ER+), which use oestrogen to grow. In younger patients, on the other hand, they tend to be triple-negative (TNBC), which are harder to treat with drugs, leading a healthcare specialist towards chemotherapy and immunotherapy. These are also more likely to be aggressive earlier in their development.

Another factor to consider is that many older individuals find it more challenging to leave the house, such as for doctor's appointments. As such, they may not discover that they have cancer until a later stage.

Screening Recommendations for Older Adults

For individuals of an at-risk age, it is recommended that they undergo a mammogram annually. If you discover a lump, however, you should be able to ask the doctor to perform a test. They are likely to perform a manual test first before progressing to other methods.

High-risk adults, on the other hand, may be more likely to be able to seek out the screening, no matter their age. 

Your doctor should be able to advise you on whether this is accurate for you, as it is less likely that they, or your healthcare provider, will offer it at specific ages unless you have a reason to suspect the existence of cancer.

If you book a screening, remember to attend. Keep reminders, and ask friends or peers to check in with you the day before.

In our community, we might encourage staff and residents to do the same so that all those with us care for one another. Our activities and events provide the perfect opportunity to check in with one another and ensure the well-being of other community members.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a 20-Year-Old Have Breast Cancer?

Although it is exceedingly rare at this age, people can develop the condition at any point in their lives. In addition, factors such as your family history or your genetic makeup may also cause issues related to cancer, including breast cancer, far earlier than in others.

Make sure to routinely self-check and book a mammogram when one is available if you suspect there is a reason to do so. Your healthcare specialist should be able to advise you on the details of this procedure.

What Is the Breast Cancer Risk by Age Thirty?

At 30, the condition continues to remain relatively stable up to 50. While there are some rising trends in the appearance of cancers in younger groups, there is no conclusive evidence that this is to a significant degree.

Instead, be aware of the symptoms and seek out the support of your friends and peers if necessary, or consult a doctor for a professional assessment.

When to Worry About Breast Pain?

Pain alone is rarely cancer, as the body is a complicated set of organs and systems that may occasionally cause unwanted discomfort. However, new or persistent pain that lasts for several days, especially severe pain, will warrant attention.

You should instead look for a new lump or for skin pulling on itself in your breasts. Other sights might include scaling, redness, or discharges from the breasts.

If you ever notice blood, however, get it checked urgently and inform the doctor of all the details of what you have experienced. They can then book you in for a screening to evaluate the cause.

Get the Support You Need During Breast Cancer

Morada Waxahachie is designed with accessibility and health goals in mind, so as your breast cancer risk by age increases, you can focus on yourself and your daily goals.

With three nutritious daily meals served in our restaurant, assisted living wellness activities, and an emphasis on both safety and comfort, we have created a community that does everything possible to both prevent cancer and support those who develop it.

To learn more about our staff and community, please get in touch. Book a tour and discover what life is like with us today.