Breast Cancer Awareness for Seniors in Tampa

Breast cancer awareness is important to maintain senior breast health. Through assisted living education and memory care awareness of common breast problems and the signs of cancer, you can identify potential cancer and resolve it promptly. 

According to Brown University Health, Breast Cancer Awareness Month was established in 1985. For nearly four decades, the month of October has been integral in educating the public about the risks of breast cancer and advocating for better screening and prevention tactics. 

In this guide, we will explore Breast Cancer Awareness Month, the warning signs of breast cancer for seniors in Tampa, FL, how to examine yourself for breast cancer, and more. Let's begin. 

What Is Breast Cancer Awareness Month? 

Breast Cancer Awareness Month occurs during October every year, with the ever-prevalent pink ribbon as the universal symbol for breast cancer awareness. The main purposes of Breast Cancer Awareness Month include:

• Public education about breast cancer
• Raising funds for research and prevention 
• Support for those diagnosed with breast cancer
• Honoring those who have lost their lives to breast cancer
• Empowering breast cancer survivors to share their stories
• Encouraging early testing and treatment 

Many charities and foundations have special events for Breast Cancer Awareness Month, such as the Susan G. Komen Foundation. 

What Are the Five Warning Signs of Breast Cancer?

Although there are many warning signs that you may have breast cancer, here are some key symptoms to look for in seniors: 

1. New lumps or thickening of the breast tissue 
2. Changes in your nipples, such as nipple inversion or discharge 
3. Pain or discomfort in your breast tissue
4. Skin changes, such as redness, dimpling, or puckering 
5. Noticeable changes in breast shape and size
6.  

If you notice any of these problems, contact your medical team immediately. 

How to Conduct a Self-Examination 

How can you tell if anything is amiss with your breasts? Sometimes, it is as obvious as looking in the mirror. However, it is important to know how to do a self-exam on your breasts to catch problems that may be lurking beneath the surface. 

Here are some key tips for conducting a thorough breast exam: 

• Stand in front of a mirror and look at your breasts closely for any visual changes. 
• Feel the breast for lumps and knots, extending all the way back to the armpit tissue. 
• Check your nipples for inversion or any type of discharge. 
• Look for signs of redness, irritation, and itchiness. 
• Feel the skin and take note of any dimpling, rippling, or changes in skin texture. 

Common Breast Cancer Diagnostic Tools 

After your self-examination, you will likely need further testing. Your doctor may do a physical examination, similar to the self-exam that you conducted, to look for any problems. This is the first line of defense. 

If there are issues deemed worthy of a mammogram, then your doctor will refer you for further testing. The mammogram machine takes special X-rays of your breast tissue so your doctor can get a full picture of the inside of the breast. However, a mammogram may not identify all breast cancers, especially for patients with dense breasts. 

Your doctor will likely do a biopsy if they find abnormal tissue, which involves using a needle to extract a sample of cells that will then be analyzed under a microscope. Additional diagnostic tools may include an MRI or ultrasound to get a better picture of the size of the tumor. 

Breast Cancer Treatment Methods

One of the most common breast cancer treatment options is a mastectomy. This procedure involves removing one or both breasts to eliminate existing tumors and prevent new ones from forming. Patients can receive either a single or a double mastectomy. 

Chemotherapy and radiation are often used to target leftover cancer cells, even after surgical removal of tumors. While these treatment techniques are effective, they can also be incredibly hard on the body, and patients may need to wait to resume normal senior activities. 

Frequently Asked Questions 

How Can I Prevent Breast Cancer From Developing? 

There aren't any tactics to eliminate the risk of breast cancer. However, there are certain lifestyle changes you can make to lower your risk, such as: 

• Limiting alcohol consumption
• Quitting smoking and other forms of tobacco usage 
• Maintaining a healthy diet 
• Staying within a healthy weight range 
• Exercising regularly
• Getting mammograms and conducting self-examinations
• Evaluating genetic and familial risk factors

Can Men Be Diagnosed With Breast Cancer? 

Yes. Since men have breast tissue, albeit a smaller amount, they can still develop breast cancer. 

Breast cancer is much rarer in men than it is in women. However, the symptoms are generally the same, as well as the treatment protocol. One unique challenge men often face is stigmatization and a lack of support in breast cancer spaces due to the rarity of male breast cancer.

Similar to women, the risk of breast cancer for men also increases as they age. It is important to educate men about the signs of breast cancer, as well as women, to encourage early diagnosis. 

What Is the Survival Rate for Breast Cancer?

Like all types of cancer, the survival rate for breast cancer varies depending on factors such as the type of cancer and the stage of diagnosis. Your oncologist will be able to provide you with an exact estimate of your chances of survival once you receive a breast cancer diagnosis. 

In general, when breast cancer is caught early, the prognosis is fairly good, especially if your body responds positively to treatments such as chemotherapy and radiation. 

Healthy Habits for Seniors at Discovery Bay Westchase

Breast cancer awareness is crucial for seniors, especially regarding aging and prevention. With this guide, you can know the signs of breast cancer and consult your medical team to quickly resolve any issues. 

At Discovery Village Westchase, our team is dedicated to ensuring our residents maintain a high quality of life through their golden years. With amenities such as chef-prepared dining and exercise programs geared specifically toward seniors, your health and well-being are our priority. 

Are you ready to see all that our beautiful community has to offer? Reach out to us today to learn more, or visit our location in Tampa, FL, to see it for yourself. We can't wait to meet you!