Breast health as we age

Last night we had a terrific chat about our breast health with Dr. Melinda Wu, a family physician and Oncologist at Women’s College Hospital and Princess Margaret Cancer Centre in Toronto. Dr. Wu provided such an informative presentation (which you can see in the video below) that I think you will be inspired to take more time for self care, especially for the health of your breasts.

Did you know your breast tissue changes when you go into menopause?

As soon as I turned 50, my family doctor encouraged me to get a mammogram and this was the first time anyone had ever mentioned something about my breast health. October is Breast Cancer Awareness month, so I invited Dr. Wu to be part of the conversation around our breasts, because we shouldn’t wait for our doctor to say something about it.

As Dr. Wu says in her presentation, getting to know about your breast anatomy and any changes that may be occurring in the tissue (especially as we get older and estrogen drops) is very important. We are the ones who can sometimes see and feel when things have changed in our breast tissue, so never wait to talk to your health provider or doctor if you have concerns.

“We should have a good understanding of these bodies that carry us through our lives”… Dr. Melinda Wu.

Lifestyle factors for breast health

(taken from the video)

• minimize alcohol – one glass of alcohol a day can raise your cancer risk
• focus on fruits and vegetables – these will provide valuable nutrients and antioxidants
• eat fewer saturated fats – like cheese, red meat, butter and curred meats
• take vitamin D – speak to your provider about how much is best for you
• work towards a healthy weight – especially around the belly area
• exercise at least 30 minutes/5 times a week – you can split this up in your day if needed

Much thanks to Dr. Wu for sharing her time and such great information with a kind and compassionate heart. If you are looking to donate to breast cancer research and support you can go to the Canadian Cancer Society.

More information about treatment and programs for women’s cancers in the Toronto area is available.

Peter Gilgan Centre for Women’s Cancers

About the author & speaker

Guest speaker Dr. Melinda Wu

Dr. Melinda Wu is a family physician at Women’s College Hospital and a general practitioner in Oncology at both Women’s College Hospital and Princess Margaret Cancer Centre. In addition to her clinical work, Dr. Wu is the Clinical Education Lead for the Peter Gilgan Centre for Women’s Cancers. She is engaged in medical education and administration, and is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Family & Community Medicine at the University of Toronto.

Cindy Willems, host

Cindy is the creator of My Fit Over 50 and a practitioner in two clinics in the Toronto area. She is a registered Acupuncturist, Certified Pilates instructor and Holistic Nutritionist. Cindy is very passionate about helping others support their body’s health & wellness, especially as they get older.