Breast Cancer and Aging: Understanding the Complex Relationship and Implications for Prevention and Screening

ABSTRACT Background Breast cancer is a multifactorial disease that affects many women worldwide. Age is the most important risk factor for breast cancer, with an increased incidence markedly after the age of 50. The relationships of aging to breast cancer have been thoroughly examined, and notable connections regarding various age‐related changes in breast tissue, as well as age‐related hormonal changes, have been defined, increasing the risk of breast cancer. In order to create opportunities for early detection and prevention, it is vital that we understand the risk factors of breast cancer, including hypertension and physical activity, to name only a few factors. Methods This review examines breast cancer incidence and rate, associations of aging and breast cancer, and the significance of better understanding this connection. The review will consider how aging interacts with breast cancer risk and will review breast cancer biology, examination of breast tissue, hormone changes with age, and other age‐related factors that may influence breast cancer risk and/or development. We will also explore breast cancer risk factors, including genetic constitution and lifestyle factors, and how these factors all interact with age characteristics. In addition, we will review strategies to reduce the risk of breast cancer and briefly review breast cancer screening guidelines, not limited to but including some of the difficulties of appropriate screening for an older woman. Results In summary, this review serves to underscore the awareness and understanding of breast cancer in connection with aging, and by acknowledging risk factors, flattening the curve of acceptance, and encouraging early detection and intervention through appropriate screening, we may alleviate the burden of breast cancer in older women.