Dear MHI reader

Breast cancer is an issue that affects every woman. Especially in connection with the menopause and possible treatments, every woman should be aware of the connection between the menopause and breast cancer.

Does the menopause increase my risk of cancer?
The menopause is not a direct cause of breast cancer, but the risk increases with age. Most breast cancers are diagnosed in women over the age of 50, with the average age at diagnosis being 63. Some medications used to treat menopausal symptoms can also increase or decrease the risk of cancer.

What are your risk factors for breast cancer?
There are several factors that can increase your risk of developing breast cancer. Keep in mind that the presence of risk factors does not mean that you will develop breast cancer, and that the absence of risk factors is no guarantee that you will not develop the disease.

– Age: Your risk increases with age. Most women who are diagnosed with breast cancer are over the age of 40, and about half of them are 61 or older. In fact, about 80% of breast cancer cases are diagnosed in women over the age of 50 who have gone through menopause.
– Family history: If your mother, sister or daughter has had breast cancer, especially at a young age, you have a higher risk.
– Previous breast problems: If a biopsy has revealed certain benign (non-cancerous) conditions such as atypical hyperplasia, your risk is higher.
In addition to these major risk factors, there are other factors to consider.

Other risk factors are:
– Late menopause (after the age of 55)
– Overweight or obesity after the menopause (as fatty tissue produces oestrogen)
– Cancer in one breast (possibility of recurrence or development of cancer in the other breast)
– History of ovarian, uterine or bowel cancer
– Presence of a BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene mutation
– Early onset of menstruation (before the age of 12)
– Birth of the first child after the age of 30 or childlessness

Does hormone replacement therapy (HRT) increase my risk of breast cancer?
Hormone replacement therapy can help relieve menopausal symptoms, but it is important to understand its impact on breast cancer risk:
– Combined HRT (estrogen + progestin): Prolonged use can increase your risk of breast cancer.
– Estrogen-only HRT: This is often prescribed to women who have had a hysterectomy, but its impact on breast cancer risk is less clear.

HRT is generally not recommended for breast cancer survivors as it can increase the risk of recurrence.

Discuss non-hormonal options with your doctor, such as lifestyle changes, certain medications and complementary therapies.

Breast cancer treatments and menopause
Some breast cancer treatments, such as chemotherapy and hormone therapies, can cause menopausal symptoms or trigger premature menopause in pre-menopausal women. The most common symptoms include
– Hot flushes
– Night sweats
– Vaginal dryness

These symptoms can significantly affect your quality of life and make it more difficult to persevere through breast cancer treatment. It is therefore important for your general well-being to treat them effectively and reduce the risk of recurrence.

What can I do to reduce my risk?
Although there is no definitive way to prevent breast cancer, you can reduce your risk by taking the following measures:
– Maintain a healthy weight: being overweight, especially after the menopause, can increase your risk.
– Stay active: Exercise for at least 30 minutes five days a week.
– Eat a healthy diet: Make sure you eat plenty of fruit and vegetables and reduce your consumption of red and processed meat.
– Limit your alcohol consumption: no more than one glass a day.

How is breast cancer detected and diagnosed?
If breast cancer is detected early, it can be treated more effectively. Here’s what you can do:
– Mammogram: At age 45 or earlier if your doctor recommends it. Some experts recommend screening by the age of 50.
– Breast exam: Your doctor should examine your breasts every 1 to 3 years in your 20s and 30s, then annually after 40.
– Self-exam: The benefits are not clear, but if you choose to do this, have your technique checked by your doctor and report any changes immediately.
– Additional screening for increased risk: If you are at increased risk, you may need an annual MRI scan in addition to your mammogram.

Be active and take responsibility for your health
The link between menopause and breast cancer is complex. While the menopause itself does not cause breast cancer, age-related factors and certain treatments can influence the risk. Manage your symptoms and consider your risk of breast cancer during and after the menopause.

Work with your doctor to develop a plan tailored to you, actively participate in screenings, pay attention to your lifestyle and actively manage your symptoms.