Breast cancer remains one of the most common types of cancer in women with approximately 1 in 8 women developing breast cancer in their lifetime. While breast cancer can affect women of any age, the risk of developing it increases as women grow old.

According to the American Cancer Society, women above 50 years of age have a higher risk of developing breast cancer compared to younger women.

Thankfully, it is possible to prevent breast cancer or detect it early. Here are some practical tips for women above 50 years to prevent breast cancer:.

1. Get Screened Regularly

Screening is the fastest and most effective way of detecting breast cancer early. Women above 50 years should schedule regular mammograms to check for signs or symptoms of breast cancer.

Women with no family history of breast cancer should schedule mammograms every two years while those with a family history of breast cancer should schedule annual mammograms.

2. Keep a Healthy Lifestyle

Studies have shown that a healthy lifestyle can reduce the risk of breast cancer in women above 50 years.

Women should adopt healthy habits such as eating a balanced diet, maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly, and avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol intake. Excessive alcohol consumption has been linked to increased levels of estrogen in the body, which is a risk factor for breast cancer.

3. Consider Risk-Reducing Medications

Women who are at a higher risk of breast cancer can consider taking medications that can reduce the risk.

Medications such as tamoxifen and raloxifene, which block estrogen in the breast tissue, can reduce the risk of breast cancer in postmenopausal women. These medications, however, have side effects and should be taken under the guidance of a doctor.

4. Be Aware of Your Family History

Women who have a family history of breast cancer are at a higher risk of developing the disease. Women should be aware of their family history and discuss it with their doctor.

In some cases, doctors may recommend genetic testing to determine the risk of breast cancer. Knowing your family history can help you take proactive steps to prevent the disease.

5. Limit Hormone Therapy

Hormone therapy has been linked to an increased risk of breast cancer in women above 50 years. Women should limit the use of hormonal therapy to the minimum necessary to manage menopausal symptoms.

Women who have undergone a hysterectomy may consider taking estrogen-only therapy, which is associated with a lower risk of breast cancer compared to combined estrogen-progestin therapy.

6. Conduct Self Exams

Self-exams can help women detect changes or lumps in their breast tissue. Women above 50 years should conduct breast self-exams monthly and report any changes or abnormalities to their doctor.

Self-exams should not be a substitute for mammograms or clinical breast exams but can be a useful tool for detecting changes in the breast tissue.

7. Consider Breastfeeding

Studies have shown that breastfeeding can reduce the risk of breast cancer in women. Women who breastfeed for a longer duration have a lower risk of breast cancer. Breastfeeding can also provide other health benefits for both the mother and the baby.

8. Manage Stress

Chronic stress has been linked to an increased risk of breast cancer. Women above 50 years should adopt stress management techniques such as yoga, meditation, or deep breathing exercises to reduce stress levels.

Managing stress can improve overall health and reduce the risk of breast cancer.

9. Get Enough Sleep

Studies have shown that getting enough sleep is essential for maintaining good health and reducing the risk of diseases such as breast cancer. Women above 50 years should aim to get 7-8 hours of uninterrupted sleep every night.

Good sleep hygiene practices such as avoiding caffeine and electronics before bedtime can improve sleep quality.

10. Stay Informed

The field of breast cancer research is constantly evolving, and new breakthroughs are made regularly.

Women above 50 years should stay informed about the latest developments in breast cancer research and talk to their doctors about any new screening methods or treatment options that may be available to them.