Women who are 70 years old are at high risk of developing breast cancer and should receive regular mammograms. A mammogram is a type of x-ray test that is performed to detect abnormal changes in breast tissue. The results of the mammogram are either viewed through a black and white x-ray photograph or sent to a computer to be viewed by a doctor. Since breast cancer often has no signs or symptoms it is important for women to get a mammogram especially when they reach a certain age where they have an increased risk of developing breast cancer.
Mammograms
According to the National Cancer Institute an increase in age is the most vital risk factor in developing breast cancer. The majority of all breast cancer occurs in women who are older than 50 and it increases even more in women who are over the age of 60. Women over the age of 50 need to undergo regular mammogram screening every 1 to 2 years. It is very important that older women who are older than 60 get frequent mammograms because it is more common for the breast cancer to spread if it is not found right away.
Risk Factors
Even though age is one of the most vital reasons to get screened for breast cancer other risk factors may make someone at an even higher risk of developing breast cancer. Certain risk factors include; a past diagnosis with breast cancer, a family history of breast cancer, abnormal breast changes, undergoing certain genetic changes, women who began menstruating before age 12 and women who went through menopause after age 55, women who have never given birth and women who did not give birth until they were 30, high breast density, the long-term use of menopausal hormone therapy, radiation therapy before the age of 30, use of the drug diethylstilbestrol, being over weight or obese, women who are not physically active, and women who drink a lot of alcohol have a increased risk of developing breast cancer. It is important for older women as well as women of any age who are at high risk of developing breast cancer to get screened as frequently as possible. You should talk with your doctor if you have any questions or concerns regarding your breast health. Breast cancer is treatable as long as it is detected early on, so it is better to be safe than sorry when it comes to breast health.
Tags: breast cancer, developing breast, developing breast cancer, risk developing, risk developing breast, breast cancer
