Breast Cancer Awareness for Roanoke's Senior Community

Breast Cancer Awareness can help you detect symptoms and begin immediate treatment, which saves lives. It's also an opportunity to show support.

According to the National Breast Cancer Foundation, breast cancer death rates have dropped by 44% since 1989. Advancements in treatments and early detection have saved more than half a million lives. Helping women with breast cancer starts with education.

This Breast Cancer Awareness Month, focus on educating yourself. Learning more about early detection, breast health, and support can help you feel prepared.

Prioritize senior women's health in Roanoke, VA. Read on to learn more about aging and breast health.

Breast Cancer Awareness Month

According to Breastcancer.org, about two million women around the world are diagnosed with breast cancer every year. Breast Cancer Awareness Month is an international campaign held every October. It aims to:

• Raise money for breast cancer research
• Encourage women to schedule regular breast cancer screenings (starting at age 40 or earlier)
• Educate people about breast cancer risk factors
• Support people diagnosed with breast cancer

Mammograms

Mammograms are X-ray images of the breast. They're used to detect early signs of breast cancer. Scheduling regular mammograms may help ensure early detection(in some cases, three years before breast cancer can be felt).

During your appointment, you'll stand in front of a special X-ray machine. A technician will put your breast on a plastic plate while a second plate presses your breast from above. These plates will hold your breast still while the X-ray images are taken. 

Here are a few tips for getting a mammogram:

• Avoid scheduling your mammogram the week before you get your period or during your period
• Avoid wearing perfume, deodorant, or powder
• Prepare to undress from the waist up for the mammogram

You receive your results within a few weeks, depending on the location. Having an abnormal mammogram doesn't always indicate the presence of cancer.You may need additional tests before a doctor can be certain.

What Are the Five Warning Signs of Breast Cancer?

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, breast cancer is the most common cancer among American women besides skin cancer. For many patients, mammograms are the best method for early detection. Breast cancer is easier to treat when caught early.

Five warning signs of breast cancer include:

1. Pain in any area of the breast
2. Any change to the size or shape of the breast
3. A new lump in the breast or underarm
4. Nipple discharge (including blood) other than breast milk
5. Dimpling or skin irritation of the breast or nipple

However, some people don't develop any symptoms at all. Different people experience different symptoms.

What Are Five Ways to Prevent Breast Cancer?

There's no sure way to prevent breast cancer. However, lifestyle changes may help reduce your risk. Lifestyle prevention strategies include:

1. Maintaining a healthy weight
2. Exercising regularly
3. Breastfeeding your children (if possible)
4. Not drinking or smoking
5. Avoiding hormone replacement therapy

If you have a family history of breast cancer, talk to your doctor to discover ways to lower your risk. Risk factors you can't change include:

• Getting older (the risk increases with age)
• Inherited genetic mutations (such as BRCA1 and BRCA2)
• Having a family history of breast or ovarian cancer
• Exposure to the drug diethylstilbestrol (DES)
• Previously receiving radiation therapy
• Starting menstrual periods before age 12
• Starting menopause after age 55
• Having dense breasts
• Having a personal history of breast cancer or certain noncancerous breast diseases

There are risk factors you can change. For example, being overweight or having obesity after menopause may increase your risk. Try to remain physically active and adjust your diet.

Some forms of hormone replacement therapy taken during menopause can increase your risk. Consider avoiding this treatment and certain oral contraceptives (birth control pills).

Consider moving into a senior living community that prioritizes assisted living wellness and memory care support. Their services may improve your quality of life while you receive treatment.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Are Cancer-Fighting Foods?

Genetic mutations and DNA damage may cause breast cancer. Obesity may also increase your risk. Certain dietary patterns, including Western diets high in processed foods, can increase the risk of breast cancer.

Some dietary patterns, like the Mediterranean diet, may help reduce your risk. Prioritize eating a nutrient-rich diet that features:

• Leafy green vegetables (kale, spinach, etc.)
• Cruciferous vegetables (cauliflower, cabbage, etc.)
• Allium vegetables (garlic, onions, leeks)
• Citrus fruits (oranges, lemons, grapefruits)
• Berries (strawberries, blueberries, etc.)
• Peaches, apples, pears, and grapes
• Fatty fish (sardines, salmon, etc.)
• Fermented foods (miso, yogurt, etc.)
• Beans
• Herbs and spices
• Whole grains (quinoa, brown rice, etc.)
• Walnuts

You can find delicious, nutritious dishes featuring these whole foods through your senior living community's dining program. Try to limit your intake of:

• Fast food
• Processed meats
• Fried foods
• Alcohol
• Refined carbs
• Added sugar

What Do Cancer Patients Need Most?

Cancer patients need a combination of physical comfort, emotional support, and practical assistance. This may include:

• Help with daily tasks (cooking, cleaning, etc.)
• Transportation
• Relaxation techniques to manage stress
• Someone to talk to

Distractions like hobbies, music, or movies may offer comfort during treatment. Spending time with friends and family members may offer emotional support and a sense of normalcy. You can find fun events in Roanoke through your senior living community's events and activities calendar.

You can help someone who is fighting breast cancer by:

• Keeping the household running
• Giving their primary caregiver a break
• Driving them to and from appointments
• Delivering meals
• Taking notes during appointments
• Taking them out for a fun outing or activity

If you're fighting breast cancer, remember: you're not alone. Consider reaching out to a local support group.

Prioritize Senior Women's Health

This Breast Cancer Awareness month, take control of your health. Schedule a screening and encourage other friends to do the same. Remember, early detection may save a life.

You can find more resources through your local senior living community. TerraBella Pheasant Ridge offers exclusive lifestyle programs to elevate your standard of living.

Enjoy Dimensions Health & Fitness classes like yoga, Celebrations Activities & Events like live entertainment and corn hole, and chef-prepared meals through Sensations Dining. Contact us now to schedule your tour.