Breast Cancer Awareness Month often focuses on mammograms, family history and early detection, but doctors say another risk factor deserves attention.
Dr. Caroline Apovian, director of the Mass General Brigham Weight Center, explains the connection between menopause, changes in body fat and the risk of post-menopausal breast cancer, along with healthy habits that may help reduce risk.
Breast Cancer Awareness Month often focuses on mammograms,
family history, and also early
detection. But this Wellness Wednesday,
doctors tell us that there's also another risk factor
that gets far less attention,
especially for women who go through menopause. Hormonal changes
could lead to more abdominal fat,
and experts say that may have important implications for
your long-term health.
From hot flashes, mood swings, to sleepless nights, and stubborn belly
fat, menopause brings plenty of changes,
and some of those changes can impact your long-term health.
In terms of breast cancer, it's post-menopausal breast cancer
that is exacerbated or there's a higher risk in women who have obesity.
Dr. Caroline Apovian, director of the Mass General Brigham Weight
Center, says obesity has long been associated with a higher risk
of post-menopausal breast cancer, a risk factor hidden in plain sight.
Fat cells can promote certain cancers.
As women move through menopause, hormone levels naturally change.
One of the biggest shifts? A decline in estrogen.
When you lower estrogen levels, women develop more visceral body fat.
Women will notice that their fat gets redistributed from subcutaneous,
the hips and legs, to the stomach.
Many women will come and say,
I can't get rid of my stomach since I've been in menopause.
It's because of the lack of estrogen.
The concern isn't just the number on the weight scale.
It's what the body fat may be doing inside.
Visceral fat is associated with inflammation, insulin resistance,
and other metabolic changes that have been linked
to a higher risk of disease and postmenopausal breast cancer.
Dr. Apovian says studies have shown weight loss may help reduce breast
cancer recurrence in women who have had postmenopausal breast cancer.
So what can you do to counteract that?
Experts at the Cleveland Clinic recommend eating
healthy whole foods limit ultra processed foods
prioritize sleep stay active through aerobic exercises
and strength training
and stay consistent with at least 30 minutes
of activity five days a week
