As you get older, your risk of getting cancer increases, and this is particularly important for women who are going through the menopause. This means that it is important that you understand how the menopause can impact your cancer risk while your body changes, as this will help you to stay aware of the signs that something is wrong in your body.
How does the menopause affect your cancer risk?
You should know that you are at an increased risk of getting breast and endometrial cancer if you start menopause over the age of 55. This is because you have been exposed to more estrogen during your lifetime. However, everyone has a higher risk of contracting cancer after their mid-fifties, anyway. This is also the case if you have started your period before the age of 12, though. You are also at an increased risk of getting ovarian cancer if you have started your menopause late, and this is because you will have had more cycles and released eggs in your lifetime.
The risk of getting diagnosed with cancer is not only related to your natural menopause, though. Some of the common medication that women take for the menopause can increase their risk of breast cancer and, though the increase is smaller, ovarian cancer. You might also be at a bigger risk of womb cancer. HRT, or hormone replacement therapy, can be used to manage night sweats and brain fog, among other common symptoms of the menopause. However, this can be dangerous because the body will be exposed to more estrogen in your lifetime. This means that you need to take the time to weigh up the risks and benefits of this treatment or look for alternatives. HRT is not all bad, though, and the women who opt for this treatment might find that they have a smaller chance of colon cancer.
How can you spot cancer?
This means that you should know what the signs and symptoms of these types of cancers are so that you can catch them early and so that you can be prepared if they strike you. You should perform regular self-examinations and you should visit the doctor if you notice a change in your body that is separate from the effects of HRT or any other medication that you are using. If you find out that you do have cancer, you should look into Moffitt Treatment for Ovarian Cancer. This could help you to get back onto your feet quicker and ensure that you have a bright future to look forward to after your diagnosis. This will also allow you to be treated by a team of experts who have a lot of knowledge and experience in the field.
What can you do to reduce your risk?
You should also look at lifestyle changes that you could make during the menopause that might be able to help you to reduce the effects of the menopause and your cancer risk. For instance, you should make sure that you perform moderate exercise a few times a week, that you eat healthily and with your body’s needs in mind, and that you cut down on your stress levels. You might also consider taking vitamin supplements that can support your wellbeing.
