Common Types Of Cancer To Watch For In Old Age

Written By Meghan Belnap / Reviewed By Ray Spotts

Cancer is a health concern for everyone in the U.S. However, according to research, it is more prevalent in the elderly population. In fact, it is estimated that over 60% of new cancer diagnoses are seen in individuals aged 65 years and above.

The main reason for this is that our body cells weaken as we age, increasing the chances of having cancer. So then, what are the common types of cancer to watch for in old age? Read on to learn more.

Breast Cancer

Breast cancer is one of the most common types of cancer, especially in elderly women. Besides genes and changes in lifestyle, the increased prevalence of breast cancer is attributed to estrogen exposure in a woman’s lifetime.

After menopause, the production of estrogen hormone transitions from ovaries to body fats. While estrogen production in the ovary is often regulated, the same isn’t true with the body fats. Since estrogen promotes the growth and spread of cancer cells, the unregulated production from body fats can cause breast cancer.

Prostate Cancer

The other common type of cancer to watch for in your old age is prostate cancer. In fact, it is said that the elderly are 20 times more likely to suffer from this condition than younger adults.

Usually, this type of cancer affects the gland, which is found near the base of the penis. Some of the common signs of infection include the interrupted flow of urine and frequent trips to the bathroom, among others.

Lung Cancer

Do you smoke regularly? If so, the chances of lung cancer catching up with you in your old golden age are 85 percent. Take note that even non-smokers can also get the disease, though not as prevalent as smokers.

If you have smoked more than 30 years or are still a renowned smoker, you should consider routine lung cancer screenings to help early detection and treatment.

Colorectal Cancer

Colorectal cancer, also known as rectal, bowel or colon cancer, is a type of cancer that affects the rectum and the colon. According to research by the American Cancer Society, more than half of diagnoses made on this type of cancer occur in individuals over the age of 65.

Therefore, as an elderly, if you experience a severe change in bowel habits, presence of blood in stools, pain and weight loss, be sure to go for checkups.

Conclusion

While the above mentioned are the common types of cancers affecting the elderly, others that are worth mentioning include bladder, bone, and pancreatic cancer. While cancer cases can be serious, the best thing to do is have routine screening. Note that early diagnosis for the mentioned cancer types leads to the greatest treatment success.

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Written By:
Meghan Belnap is a freelance writer who enjoys spending time with her family. She loves being in the outdoors and exploring new opportunities whenever they arise. Meghan finds happiness in researching new topics that help to expand her horizons. You can often find her buried in a good book or out looking for an adventure. You can connect with her on Facebook right here and Twitter right here.

Reviewed By:

Founder Ray Spotts has a passion for all things natural and has made a life study of nature as it relates to health and well-being. Ray became a forerunner bringing products to market that are extraordinarily effective and free from potentially harmful chemicals and additives. For this reason Ray formed Trusted Health Products, a company you can trust for clean, effective, and healthy products. Ray is an organic gardener, likes fishing, hiking, and teaching and mentoring people to start new businesses. You can get his book for free, “How To Succeed In Business Based On God’s Word,” at www.rayspotts.com.