Breast cancer is a common form of cancer in women. Experts expect there to be around 268,000 new cases of breast cancer in the United States this year. Unfortunately, more than 41,000 women will die from breast cancer during the year, too. Doctors suspect that there are many things that contribute to a woman getting breast cancer. These are called risk factors. One of the risk factors for breast cancer is getting older. Most cases of breast cancer are diagnosed in women who are over the age of 50. While there isn’t anything your aging relative can do about her age, there are risk factors that are controllable, such as the 4 described below.
#1: Weight
Women, especially those who have gone through menopause already, are at greater risk for developing breast cancer if they are overweight. After menopause, fat is the biggest source of estrogen since the ovaries have stopped producing it. The higher estrogen levels associated with fat tissue increase the chances of developing breast cancer.
Elder care providers can assist older women to lose or control their weight to reduce this risk. An elder care provider can prepare meals that are low in calories and ingredients associated with weight gain. They can also offer encouragement as the senior works toward their weight loss goals.
#2: Diet
The exact role diet plays in the development of breast cancer is still being researched. However, there is some suggestion that a very low-fat diet may reduce the risk. In addition, experts recommend eating 5 or more cups of fruits and vegetables each day, increasing omega 3 fatty acid intake, limiting saturated fats, and avoiding trans fats.
In addition to cooking low calorie meals, elder care providers can also make meals that focus mainly on fruits and vegetables as well as using low-fat protein sources, like fish and poultry.
#3: Exercise
Women who don’t engage in regular physical activity are putting themselves at a higher risk for developing breast cancer. The American Cancer Society suggests exercising 45 to 60 minutes per day at least 5 days per week to reduce breast cancer risk.
Elder care providers can assist your aging relative to be more physically active. An elder care provider can go for walks with the senior, keep an eye on them while they exercise at home, or drive them to an exercise class.
#4: Alcohol
Research indicates that the more alcohol a woman drinks, the greater her risk for developing breast cancer. The reason for this is that alcohol can impact the body’s ability to control the amount of estrogen in the blood.
An elder care provider can encourage your older family member to make healthier beverage choices by making sure there are other options on hand. For example, an elder care provider can make a pitcher of lemonade or iced tea or prepare a cup of tea or coffee.
Sources
https://www.cdc.gov/cancer/breast/basic_info/risk_factors.htm
https://www.breastcancer.org/symptoms/understand_bc/risk/factors
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/breast-cancer/symptoms-causes/syc-20352470
https://www.breastcancer.org/symptoms/understand_bc/statistics
IF YOU OR AN AGING LOVED ONE IS CONSIDERING ELDER CARE IN LAS VEGAS, NV, PLEASE CONTACT THE CARING STAFF AT GOLDEN HEART SENIOR CARE OF SUMMERLIN. 702-800-4616.