Anyone passionate about extending life for themselves and those dearest to them know that you must devote keen attention to the foundational aspects of longevity. Whether you’re settled at home or residing in a senior living community, numerous studies show one of the best ways to reach for a long lifeline is to be vigilant about personal health, especially when it comes to early signs of breast cancer in seniors.

Over 50% of breast cancer patients are 65 years or older, and about 30% are over 70 years old. If you’re in that age range or approaching it, it’s a potential health condition that should be on your radar.

As with other types of cancer, detecting breast cancer sooner gives you the best shot at long-term survival. The American Cancer Society reports when breast cancer is detected early before it’s metastasized, the 5-year relative survival rate is 99%.

In more good news, women aged 50 and up who have in-situ breast cancer (cancer that hasn’t spread) have a higher 5-year survival rate than those under 50. This is explained in part by the fact older women are more concerned about getting breast cancer so are likely to take more proactive measures, thus be diagnosed and treated sooner.

Those measures typically include having an annual or semi-annual clinical exam and regular mammogram, both essential to early detection. If you’re doing all that, bravo. You’re on the defensive against that insidious malady that is cancer.

But it’s important to know you can do more. Here are some of the most common signs and symptoms of breast cancer you can watch out for when conducting monthly self-examinations:

1. Swelling in your breast, armpit, or collarbone – If you notice swelling in these areas, it could mean a small undetected breast cancer has spread to your lymph nodes. In addition to swelling, the area might also feel sore. If the condition lasts more than a week, get checked out by your doctor. Although swelling and lumps in your lymph nodes can be caused by other things, the nodes are typically the first place breast cancer spreads.


2. A lump in your breast – Call your doctor if you come across a lump in any part of your breast that feels soft, rounded, tender or even painful.


3. Thickening, reddening, or dimpling of the skin – A sudden rash or redness on your breast, or dimpling that makes your skin look like an orange peel, can also be early signs of breast cancer you shouldn’t ignore.


4. Inverted or retracted nipples – If you suddenly notice one of your nipples is no longer pointed out but rather turning inward, let your doctor know. Although an inverted nipple doesn’t automatically mean you have breast cancer, it is one of the most common early signs.


5. Nipple discharge – Since nipple discharge is typically associated with pregnancy, breastfeeding and menstrual hormone changes, seniors who find fluid seeping from a nipple should immediately check in with their physician. Nipple discharge often can be caused by a benign condition, but it may be an early red flag for breast cancer especially if:
   
   • Fluid is clear or bloody
   • Discharge comes on suddenly and doesn’t stop
   • Fluid from a single duct
   • Only one breast is affected
   • You also have found a lump in your breast
   
   
6. Itchy, warm breasts – Early signs of inflammatory cancer include a breast that has turned red, become swollen and feels itchy, similar to an insect bite.

While breast cancer is most closely associated with women, older men are at risk of getting it too. The early symptoms of male breast cancer in seniors are the same as for women. However, because men may not be aware they are at risk for getting this disease, these warning signs may be ignored.

Aside from preventive medical care there’s a lot you can do to stop this deadly disease in its tracks. Being aware of and seeking treatment for the early signs of breast cancer in seniors can help you stay healthy and enjoy all the things you love.

MorningStar Senior Living

If your loved one lives far from family and friends, it could be time to move into a senior living community near their adult children where they’ll have the companionship of fellow seniors and a compassionate service team. At MorningStar Senior Living, a 24/7 team is dedicated to offer care and hospitality services that meet each resident’s social, emotional, physical, and spiritual needs.