The dramatic drop in the hormone level that triggers menopause can cause unpleasant side effects for some women. If you're experiencing problems, you might want to ask your doctor if estrogen therapy is right for you. Women over 50 should also have an annual mammography. This is a special x-ray of the breast that can detect tumors too small for your physician to feel. Breast Cancer Breast cancer is one of the leading cancer killers of women.
Some women are at a greater risk of developing breast cancer than others.
High risk women include those who are over 50, or who have other family members with cancer. Women who have never had children, or were over 30 when they had their first child may also be at risk. Monthly self exams, and regular check-ups are the key to early detection and long term survival. It is likely to occur between the ages of 30 and 55. Uterine cancer most often occurs after menopause.