Latest news with #postmenopausal
Daily Mail
07-07-2025
- Health
- Daily Mail
Doctors issue warning as common body type is linked to frighteningly high breast cancer risk in major study
Scientists have pinpointed a lifestyle factor which can increase women's chances of developing breast cancer by almost a third. Researchers analysed health data from 168,547 postmenopausal women and found a link between being overweight and developing the disease. And the likelihood was even higher for women who have heart disease. Researchers found that for every 5kg/m2 increase in body mass index (BMI), women with heart disease had a 31 per cent higher risk of being diagnosed with breast cancer. Meanwhile, for the same increase in BMI, women without heart disease had a 13 per cent higher risk of developing breast cancer. BMI—body mass index— is calculated by dividing a person's weight by their height, and is used around the world to benchmark if someone is underweight, of a 'normal' healthy weight, overweight, or obese. The combination of being overweight and having heart disease was estimated to lead to 153 more cases of breast cancer per 100,000 people each year than expected. However, the development of type two diabetes was not found to be linked to a higher risk of breast cancer by the International Agency for Research on Cancer team. The study suggests that shedding the pounds could lower women's risk of breast cancer. Lead author of the study, Dr Heinz Freisling, who works in the specialised cancer agency of the World Health Organization, said: 'The findings of this study could be used to inform risk-stratified breast cancer screening programs. 'This study should also inspire future research to include women with a history of cardiovascular diseases in weight loss trials for breast cancer prevention.' The findings have been published by Wiley online and in CANCER, a peer-reviewed journal of the American Cancer Society. Some studies suggest that fat tissue produces excess amounts of the hormone oestrogen, which in high levels has been linked to breast cancer. Earlier this year Danish researchers revealed being obese makes breast cancer survivors up to 80 per cent more likely to die of the disease. Weight-related health problems, like high blood pressure and high blood sugars, as well as excess body fat also raised the risk of the disease returning, by 70 per cent. The scientists theorised that this combination—medically known as metabolic syndrome—triggers inflammation in the body, which prevents the immune system from effectively fighting cancer cells. It comes amid an alarming prediction earlier this year that breast cancer deaths in the UK will soar by more than 40 per cent by 2050. By the same year, globally, another study estimated there will be 3.2million new cases and 1.1million breast-related deaths per year if current trends continue. The disease is far more prevalent in those over 50, which is the age women typically experience the menopause. But alarming research has suggested breast cancer cases globally are rising in under-50s—an alarming phenomenon that has baffled experts. It is the most common type of cancer in the UK, taking the lives of around 11,500 Britons and 42,000 Americans each year. Early signs of the disease are a lump in the breast, swelling or lump in the armpit, change in size or shape of breasts, discharge of fluid from the nipple. Others include dimpling, a rash or redness on skin, as well as crusting, scaly or itchy skin on the nipple. Despite years of pleas from cancer charities, more than a third of women in the UK still do not regularly assess their breasts. However, it should be part of your monthly routine, so you can notice any unusual changes, charity CoppaFeel previously said. You can check in the shower, when you are lying down in bed or in the mirror before you get dressed. Because breast tissue isn't just found in your boobs, it's also important that men and women check the tissue all the way to their collarbone and underneath their armpit. There is no right or wrong way to check your breasts, as long as you know how your breasts usually look and feel, says the NHS. But one of the most popular methods online involves using the pads of your fingers. Examining your entire breast and armpit area, simply, rub and feel from top to bottom of the breast. You should also feel in semi-circles and in a circular motion around your breast tissue to feel for any abnormalities, according to a guide shared in a blog post by the University of Nottingham. Then look in the mirror for any visual lumps, skin texture and changes and changes in nipple shape or abnormal discharge. If you spot any changes, you should get it checked out by your GP. Women aged between 50 and 70 should also be attending routine breast cancer screening.
Yahoo
29-06-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
Can You Build Muscle After 60? Yes, And These Expert-Backed Tips Make It So Much Easier
It's no secret that the benefits of strength training—particularly for postmenopausal women—are numerous, from building muscle to increasing longevity and so much more. But starting out can feel overwhelming. The truth: Building a strength training routine at any point doesn't have to be complicated—it just needs to be consistent. 'Start small, build gradually, and stick with it,' says Abby Bales, PT, DPT, CSCS, founder of Reform Physical Therapy. She recommends starting with two or three sessions per week, focusing on five to six exercises from this list for three sets of 10 reps. Try rotating between upper body, lower body, and core exercises to keep things balanced. Need some expert guidance? Get our exclusive strength training plan that was designed to help you build muscle and burn fat at the same time. Starting a new weight lifting routine is exciting, but safety should come first at any age. Here are some important tips from Bales to keep in mind as you embark on a strength training journey: Clear your space. Ensure your workout area is free of obstacles to prevent slipping, sliding, or tripping. Choose appropriate weights. If you're new to a move, start with body weight only. When you're ready to add weights, choose something that allows you to perform at least eight to 10 reps with good form but feels challenging by the last two to three. If your form falters before then, the weight may be too heavy. Warm up and cool down. Include gentle stretches and mobility exercises before and after lifting to get your muscles acclimated and prevent injury. Focus on form. Follow visual guides to work towards proper technique and reduce the risk of injury. You can even consider videoing yourself or lifting in front of a mirror (being mindful not to strain your gaze in a way that alters your alignment) to check your form. If possible, book one or two sessions with a trainer to ensure you're starting with proper technique. Listen to your body. Pay attention to any pain or discomfort. If something hurts, skip it! Honestly, no. There really aren't any exercises that are completely off-limits for older women, says Bales—as long as you're comfortable. If an exercise causes pain, skip it. If it feels too challenging or confusing to get the hang of, try tweaking it to better suit your needs. That said, depending on your fitness level, bone density, and current mobility and stability level, high-impact, single-side, and twisting exercises should be approached with caution, and may be best left behind for some people, she says. High-impact moves like jump squats and box jumps—while great for building up and strengthening your bones—put extra strain on joints, and therefore may not be a good idea for those who already experience joint pain or have arthritis, says Bales. If balance is an area of improvement for you, single-leg exercises are a great tool to rely on, as long as you're using a stable platform to stabilize yourself and avoid ending up on the floor. For beginners, it's best to stick with slow, controlled resistance and bodyweight exercises that build strength without unnecessary strain, like bodyweight squats, resistance band work, or moderate weight lifting, says Bales. Above all, prioritize good form over the amount of weight you're lifting, and don't let fear stop you from getting started. Bales' bottom line: 'Move as much as possible.' If you're not sure which exercises are appropriate for you, consider seeing a physical therapist to get a full assessment and discuss your preferences and goals. Get the Workouts Get the Workouts Get the Challenge Get the Challenge Get the Workouts Get the Challenge Get the Workouts Get the Workouts Get the Workouts Get the Workouts Get the Workouts Get the Workouts Get the Workouts Get the Workouts Get the Challenge Get the Workouts You Might Also Like Jennifer Garner Swears By This Retinol Eye Cream These New Kicks Will Help You Smash Your Cross-Training Goals
ABC News
19-06-2025
- Health
- ABC News
Study backing OsteoStrong 'bone-strengthening' exercise program should be retracted: experts
A study claiming a popular exercise regimen called OsteoStrong can help strengthen bones in post-menopausal women has been criticised by scientists, with some saying it should never have been published. The research, which was accepted for publication in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism (JCEM) in February this year, was hailed as "groundbreaking" by the international franchise behind the exercise program. "The acceptance of this research in a prestigious, peer-reviewed medical journal like JCEM is a monumental step in validating OsteoStrong as a science-backed solution for osteoporosis management," the company said in a press release at the time. But the study has since attracted international criticism, with questions being raised about its design, data analysis and conclusions. "We really questioned the [journal] editor on how this paper got through the peer-review process," said Robin Daly, a researcher in exercise and ageing at Deakin University. The study examined the effectiveness of the OsteoStrong program, which was described as "a bone-strengthening system implementing four devices and incorporating brief (10-minute), weekly, low-impact, and high-intensity osteogenic loading exercises" in postmenopausal women with osteoporosis. The researchers separated 147 women into two groups. One group did the program and the other did not. The group that did the exercise program was further divided into two groups, one of which was on bone-strengthening medication and one that was not. Measures of bone strength were carried out at the start and end of the 12-month trial. The study claimed bone density was improved in women who did OsteoStrong (compared to those who didn't), and that among participants who were also on medication, it enhanced the effect of the drugs. "This is the first study that clearly demonstrates benefit" from the OsteoStrong program, the researchers wrote. But among numerous concerns expressed by critics are that the clinical trial had no clear statistical plan, failed to reduce the risk of bias, had no ethical approval and was not registered online for transparency. According to Professor Daly, "the claims [of the study] are totally misleading. They're not supported by the data". He said the way the study was designed and its results were analysed made it difficult to conclude anything. "The whole paper is extremely difficult to interpret. Professor Daly and University of Waterloo bone researcher Lora Giangregoria sent a letter to the editor of the journal calling for the study's retraction. Professor Giangregoria was concerned that publicity of the study's findings would lead people to make uninformed decisions about the OsteoStrong program. "The way that they present the statistics actually doesn't make any sense," she said. "The claims made in the study were not appropriate." Other experts have also expressed concern about the failure of the study to adhere to normal standards and guidelines for clinical trials. They were concerned the clinical trial was not registered, a practice that helps make research more transparent, and prevent publication bias. It also lacked appropriate ethics approval and there were "potential unacknowledged conflicts of interest", Professor Daly added. In March this year, Osteoporosis Canada expressed concern about the study and the evidence base for the OsteoStrong program. In a statement, also co-authored by Professor Giangregoria, the organisation said: … Osteoporosis Canada cannot support recommendations regarding its use for fracture prevention based on existing research. Chris Maher, director of the University of Sydney Institute for Musculoskeletal Health, agreed with the concerns raised about the study. "That study is flawed and does not provide believable evidence on the effect of OsteoStrong," Professor Maher said. He pointed specifically to the lack of registration and ethical clearance. "It therefore does not conform to the Declaration of Helsinki, so it has no standing in medical science and should never have been published." Maria Fiatarone Singh, a University of Sydney geriatrician who researches the impacts of exercise, was also highly critical of the study. "I think it is too flawed to draw any conclusions," she commented by email. "It is shocking that the editors allowed this to be published in a peer-reviewed journal and it indeed should be retracted and re-analysed at the very least." Shoshana Sztal-Mazer, an endocrinologist and expert in bone disease at Alfred Health in Melbourne, said the principle behind OsteoStrong was "plausible". The company states its system relies on "osteogenic loading", which is where force on your bones stimulates them to grow stronger. "Physiologically it makes sense," Dr Sztal-Mazer said. But she agreed there were concerns about the study. "It doesn't look like it was rigorously conducted. One of the major sources of bias in the study, according to critics, was allowing patients to choose which group they were in, Professor Fiatarone Singh said. "It is well known that people who choose exercise are healthier and at less risk of disease for numerous reasons than sedentary individuals or those who choose a non-exercise control condition when given a choice." In a statement provided to the ABC, the Endocrine Society, which publishes the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism, said "we recognise the shortcomings in the research's design and analyses as reported in the online accepted manuscript. "Following a detailed editorial assessment, we confirmed the need for significant revisions." The authors of the study are in the process of submitting a corrected version of the paper, the statement added. OsteoStrong was approached for comment, but did not respond specifically to concerns raised by Osteoporosis Canada and others. Instead, Perry Eckert, managing director of OsteoStrong Australia, pointed to recent unpublished research partly sponsored by the company. According to Mr Eckert, the study showed "a significant improvement" in bone mineral density and overall strength in 38 postmenopausal women with osteoporosis. Healthy Bones Australia endorses exercise as an important part of reducing bone loss in older age. But most trials on exercise programs to strengthen bones are small compared to those studying pharmaceuticals, so the evidence for exercise is not as strong as that for drugs. The majority of experts the ABC spoke to were not convinced at this stage exercise could reverse bone mineral density loss that occurs in post-menopausal women, although it might slow down the rate of loss. But despite there being better evidence behind the use of medications to increase bone density, Dr Sztal-Mazer prescribes exercise as well as medications to help stave off bone loss in this age group. "Exercise is important as a part of holistic care for osteoporosis and generally for healthy bones." As well any impact on bone density, the right kind of exercise — along with adequate vitamin D, calcium and other nutrients — plays a key role in preventing fractures, Dr Sztal-Mazer said. Exercise can also improve strength and balance, which can also help prevent falls, the main cause of bone fragility fractures. But, Dr Sztal-Mazer cautions, guidelines for exercise used by physiotherapists and exercise physiologists to manage osteoporosis suggests a much bigger time commitment is required than that proposed by OsteoStrong.
Medical News Today
18-06-2025
- Health
- Medical News Today
Postmenopausal breast cancer: Risk, symptoms, and more
Link MHT and breast cancer Other risk factors Contacting a doctor FAQ Postmenopausal breast cancer occurs at higher rates due to cumulative hormone exposure and age-related cellular changes that increase cancer risk. Breast cancer develops when cells in breast tissue begin to grow and divide uncontrollably, forming tumors that can spread to other parts of the body. The risk of breast cancer increases significantly with age, particularly after menopause, when hormonal and cellular changes create an environment more conducive to cancer development. This article explores postmenopausal breast cancer risk, symptoms to watch for, and risk reduction strategies following menopause. Curly_photo/Getty Images Yes, the risk of breast cancer can increase after menopause. Statistics show that the likelihood of developing breast cancer rises with age, with about 1 in 8 women developing the disease during their lifetime, and the majority of these cases occurring after menopause. In those ages 20 to 24, there are 1.5 breast cancer cases per 100,000. This figure jumps to more than 421 cases in those ages 75 to 79. More than 9 in 10 new female breast cancer cases occur in those ages 40 or over. This age-related increase means that postmenopausal people may benefit from regular screening. The relationship between breast cancer and menopause centers on the length of hormone exposure. During reproductive years, the body produces estrogen and progesterone every month as part of the menstrual cycle. These hormones signal breast cells to grow and divide, a process that is entirely natural. However, each time cells divide, there is a slight chance for mistakes to occur in the DNA. Over many years, these mistakes can accumulate and potentially lead to cancer development. While menopause itself does not directly cause cancer, breast cancer risk naturally increases with age. Those who experience menopause later in life, after age 55, have a higher risk of breast cancer because their bodies were exposed to reproductive hormones for longer periods. Menopausal hormone therapy (MHT) is another consideration. Many people use MHT during perimenopause to manage symptoms such as hot flashes, but some types of MHT increase breast cancer risk. The risk appears to be higher with combined estrogen and progesterone treatment compared to estrogen alone. MHT can increase breast cancer risk, but the level of risk depends on the specific type of HRT used. Combination MHT, which contains both estrogen and progesterone, poses a higher risk than estrogen-only therapy. Estrogen-only MHT is typically used by those who have had hysterectomies. It does not appear to be linked to an increased breast cancer risk, making it a safer option for appropriate candidates. MHT may increase the initial risk of developing breast cancer and make it more likely that cancer will be detected at advanced stages. According to this occurs partly because combination MHT increases breast density, making mammograms less effective at spotting early cancers. The risk appears greater with daily progesterone use compared to less frequent dosing schedules. The dose and duration of MHT also play a significant role in breast cancer risk. Higher doses carry a greater risk than lower doses, and this increased risk can persist for more than 10 years after treatment stops. These findings apply to both synthetic hormones and bioidentical products, despite marketing claims that natural hormones are safer. Anyone considering MHT should discuss their risk factors with healthcare professionals to weigh the benefits of symptom relief against potential cancer risks. Reproductive history : Never having children or having a first child after age 30 increases the risk. Pregnancy lowers breast cell exposure to circulating estrogen. The more children a person has, the greater the protection against breast cancer. : Never having children or having a first child after age 30 increases the risk. Pregnancy lowers breast cell exposure to circulating estrogen. The more children a person has, the greater the protection against breast cancer. Lifestyle factors : A lack of physical activity and excessive alcohol consumption can contribute to increased risk. Smoking, particularly if started at a young age, also elevates breast cancer risk. : A lack of physical activity and excessive alcohol consumption can contribute to increased risk. Smoking, particularly if started at a young age, also elevates breast cancer risk. Medical factors : Previous breast biopsies showing atypical cells, family history of breast or ovarian cancer, and genetic mutations such as BRCA1 or BRCA2 significantly increase risk. Radiation exposure to the chest area, particularly during adolescence, also contributes to elevated risk. : Previous breast biopsies showing atypical cells, family history of breast or ovarian cancer, and genetic mutations such as BRCA1 or BRCA2 significantly increase risk. Radiation exposure to the chest area, particularly during adolescence, also contributes to elevated risk. Dense breast tissue: Dense breast tissue has a higher risk of developing breast cancer and may require additional screening methods beyond standard mammography. Maintain a moderate weight : Working toward and maintaining a moderate weight through balanced nutrition and regular physical activity significantly reduces risk. : Working toward and maintaining a moderate weight through balanced nutrition and regular physical activity significantly reduces risk. Exercise regularly : Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity per week, plus two sessions of strength training exercises each week. : Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity per week, plus two sessions of strength training exercises each week. Limit alcohol consumption : Restrict alcohol intake to no more than one drink per day, as alcohol consumption is linked to increased breast cancer risk at any level of intake. : Restrict alcohol intake to no more than one drink per day, as alcohol consumption is linked to increased breast cancer risk at any level of intake. Follow screening guidelines : Adhere to the recommended mammography schedules, typically once or twice a year, depending on age and risk factors. People with a higher risk may need additional screening methods. : Adhere to the recommended mammography schedules, typically once or twice a year, depending on age and risk factors. People with a higher risk may need additional screening methods. Consider preventive medications: For high risk individuals, medications like tamoxifen or raloxifene may reduce breast cancer risk by around 40% . These decisions require careful discussion with oncologists or breast specialists. A person should contact a doctor if they notice any symptoms of breast cancer. Postmenopausal individuals should be particularly vigilant because they no longer experience monthly breast changes related to menstrual cycles, making new abnormalities more significant. Any persistent change lasting more than 2 weeks warrants medical evaluation. Although regular self-examinations are not a replacement for professional screening, they can help people become familiar with their normal breast tissue and detect changes early. Invasive ductal carcinoma (IDC) accounts for about 80% of breast cancer cases and breast cancer mainly develops in those around the age of 62. Generally, yes. After menopause, the body produces much less estrogen and progesterone, the hormones that many breast cancers depend on to grow and spread. With lower hormone levels after menopause, these cancers receive weaker growth signals and tend to develop more slowly. This hormonal change creates a less favorable environment for cancer growth compared to the higher hormone levels present during reproductive years. Yes, postmenopausal breast cancer is typically less aggressive. Many breast cancers in older individuals are 'hormone-receptor-positive,' meaning they have receptors that allow hormones to fuel their growth. These hormone-positive cancers respond well to treatments that block hormones or prevent the body from making them, essentially cutting off the cancer's fuel supply. Postmenopausal breast cancer risk increases significantly with age. The relationship between menopause and breast cancer stems from cumulative hormonal exposure and age-related cellular changes. Risk factors include MHT, excess weight, family history, and lifestyle factors. People can reduce their risk by maintaining a moderate weight, engaging in regular exercise, limiting alcohol consumption, and following screening guidelines. While postmenopausal breast cancers are often hormone receptor-positive and slower-growing, early detection remains crucial for optimal outcomes. Symptoms may be subtle but include new lumps, breast changes, and nipple abnormalities. Breast Cancer Menopause Cancer / Oncology
Health Line
18-06-2025
- Health
- Health Line
Can Stress Cause Postmenopausal Bleeding?
Yes, in some cases, stress can cause postmenopausal bleeding. This is because stress can result in hormonal imbalances which can lead to changes to the vaginal lining. If the lining becomes too thick, thin, or inflamed, it can shed and cause bleeding. It's important to note, however, that stress is a rare cause of postmenopausal bleeding. The most common causes include: a thickened vaginal lining, which can be caused by excess estrogen in the body cervical polyps, which are noncancerous growths on the cervix inflammation or thinning of the vaginal lining, caused by low estrogen levels » Learn more about how postmenopausal bleeding is treated. When to speak with a doctor about postmenopausal bleeding You should always speak with a doctor about any vaginal bleeding that occurs after menopause, even if it is just spotting or has only happened once. In some cases, postmenopausal bleeding can be a sign of uterine cancer. While this is rare, a doctor can run some tests to check for any cancerous cells. Remember, an early diagnosis of cancer can increase the chance of successful treatment and improve the overall outcome. How can I manage my stress levels? There are several way you can manage your stress levels, including: Learn your triggers. It can be helpful to identify what may be triggering your stress and work to reduce these stressors where possible. Ensure you're getting enough sleep. Not getting enough sleep can often make daily stressors more difficult to manage. Make time for things you enjoy. Consider scheduling time for activities that bring you joy and allow you to relax. Seeking support from loved ones. Speaking about your worries with loved ones may help you feel more supported. If you are finding it difficult to manage your stress levels, consider speaking with a healthcare professional. They can work with you to put together a suitable treatment plan.
