As Breast Cancer Awareness Month comes to a close, it’s important to learn habits you can adopt year-round to lower your risk. Here’s what you should consider when maintaining your breast health every month!
What is Breast Cancer?
Breast cancer refers to malignant (or potentially dangerous) tumors developed from cells in the breast. While it mostly occurs amongst women, men are also at risk. 1 in 8 women will develop breast cancer in their lifetime, while that figure is 1 in 830 for men. The illness is caused by a “genetic abnormality,” but only 5-10% of cancers are inherited from your parents–the vast majority are caused by age and general wear on your body.
How Can I Lower my Risk of Breast Cancer?
Certain lifestyle factors can increase one’s risk of developing breast cancer. However, many popular myths about what causes the illness have been disproven. Wearing a bra and using antiperspirants, for example, have been shown little to no link to breast cancer. In fact, the most significant factors are age and sex.
The COVID-19 pandemic put a pause on many non-emergency procedures, which led to fewer people receiving cancer screenings. Regular visits to your doctor can help detect potentially cancerous cells years before physical symptoms begin to show. Women who receive regular mammograms are not only more likely to find breast cancer sooner, but less likely to require aggressive treatment.
Hormone therapy, which is often used to treat the symptoms of menopause, may increase your risk of breast cancer. It is always recommended that you carefully consider the pros and cons of any medical decisions with your doctor.
Above all, maintaining an active lifestyle with a balanced diet is one of the best ways to lower your risk of breast cancer. Growing evidence suggests that physical activity (especially in post-menopausal women) and a healthy diet can reduce your likelihood of developing cancer.
Support From the Eddy
Residents of our communities have access to services and amenities to help maintain a healthy lifestyle.
- Our dining services provide fresh and wholesome meals that are not only delicious but part of a balanced diet!
- All Eddy Senior Living Communities have implemented EmpowerU, a unique wellness program to keep our residents in their best physical health. All communities have a fully stocked fitness center and classes that aren’t just good for you, but fun too!
- Residents living in Eddy Communities have access to regular transportation to medical appointments, ensuring they can keep up with routine health screenings.
Having access to factors that maintain your health is the key to keeping breast cancer and other illness at bay. Speak to a Senior Living Specialist today to see how The Eddy can keep you active and in good shape! Contact us online or give us a call at (518) 280-8385.