How Often Should You Get Breast Exams as You Age?
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Significant efforts have been put into educating and creating awareness about breast cancer among all women and men, young and elderly.
"How do you check for breast cancer? How often should you check for breast cancer?" Those are questions asked far too often. The most effective way to monitor any changes you might experience in your breasts and maintain your health is through regular checkups and breast exams.
If you are concerned for your senior loved ones in Burnsville, Saint Paul, Cottage Grove, and Hastings, MN, keep reading to find out how often seniors should get breast exams.
What are Breast Exams?
These are examinations that help doctors determine that breasts are healthy. These exams are the first lines of defense for women against breast cancer. Breast exams come in different forms:
- Self-examination
- Clinical examination
- Ultrasound
- MRI
- Mammogram
Combining these examinations is the most effective way of detecting breast cancer earlier. Therefore, it is wise to learn more about these exams and when they should be done.
Self-examination
It's advisable to incorporate self-breast examination activities into your daily routine. According to studies, 40% of breast cancer cases are discovered during self-examinations.
It won't cost you a dime to self-examine from the comfort of your home. Self-examination will help you familiarize yourself with your breast tissues, making it easier to recognize breast changes.
Breast self-exams are a three-part process you can easily perform. That is:
- Shower check
- Mirror check
- Lounging check
Clinical Examinations
Unlike self-examinations, specially-trained medical experts perform clinical exams.
A healthcare professional examines your breast tissues from different angles during clinical examinations to check for lumps. Not all lumps or changes in your breasts are signs of cancer.
Ultrasound
A sonographer uses ultrasound to assess the size and shape of lumps in your breasts to determine if they're tumors or benign cysts. However, this is not a necessary exam for all women.
MRI
An MRI is an exam used to diagnose breast cancer and also to examine any known tumors. A Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) device uses radio waves and magnets to produce a detailed photo of your breast tissues.
Mammogram
This is a type of x-ray imaging used to screen and diagnose breast cancer. A mammogram plays a vital role in the early diagnosis of breast cancer.
A mammogram can detect lumps, abnormalities, and tumors in your breasts.
Recommendations for Breast Exams by Age
Different factors determine how often you should get breast exams. Let your loved ones in Burnsville, Saint Paul, Cottage Grove, and Hastings, MN know that every woman should practice self-examination at least once a month.
Senior Citizens in their 60s
Women in their 60s should get a mammogram and have a clinical breast examination by a professional healthcare service provider once every year.
Senior Citizens Over 70 Years
Seniors over 70 should visit their physician or healthcare provider to find out if an examination is necessary.
Breast Cancer Risk Factors
The risk of developing breast cancer among women may increase if:
- They carry a related mutation
- They face exposure to radiation treatment around their chest
- They have a personal history of breast cancer, etc.
Bottom Line
Breast cancer affects all genders, and the risk increases with age. Therefore, it's essential that our senior loved ones self-examine regularly and visit a health practitioner occasionally. Senior Helpers Burnsville is ready to help your senior loved ones in Burnsville, Saint Paul, Cottage Grove, and Hastings, MN, stay safe and get the absolute most out of life. Contact us today for more information.