At age 40, women enter a crucial decade in their health, marked by changes that can impact not only physically, but also their mental well-being. From this age, the body can begin to experience significant hormonal changes that mark the beginning of a new phase and that can influence important aspects of health such as metabolism, bone density and emotional statecausing anxiety, irritability or feelings of vulnerability, among others. These changes, along with the increased need for regular preventive medical testing, can intensify stress and health concerns.
Furthermore, at this stage of life, the risk of developing tumors, such as breast cancer, increases, which can cause unease and distress. And, although this cancer has its maximum incidence between the ages of 45 and 65, In recent years, an increase has been observed among young women and nearly 10% are diagnosed in people under 40.according to the Spanish Society of Medical Oncology (SEOM).
From this age onwards, therefore, prevention has even greater importance since, thanks to diagnostic tests, breast lesions can be detected up to several years before cancer progression towards the lymph nodes or other areas can be seen. organs, which reduces the aggressiveness of the treatment and minimizes physical and psychological sequelae. In Spain, the breast cancer screening program carries out Annual mammograms in women between 50 and 69 years old, the highest risk group; even so, Other countries are already beginning to advance screening at age 40, even without the existence of family history.
The Dr. Daniela Silva, specialist in Internal Medicine and E-Health Medical Manager at Cigna Healthcare Spainexplains that «Facing the hormonal changes of the turn of the decade and the fear of a possible cancer diagnosis can be overwhelming for many women. Although uncertainty in the face of the unknown is understandable, keeping a thorough check on women’s health in this decade is essential. Regular visits to the gynecologist, to perform complete check-ups and adapt follow-up to individual needs, monthly breast self-examination and screening tests in women with a family history of breast cancer, become even more important. Adopting these preventive habits not only increases the chances of detecting anomalies in their initial stages, but also helps reduce anxiety. Having control over one’s own health provides peace of mind and allows for informed decision-making, empowering women to protect their physical and emotional well-being at such a decisive stage.”
Breast cancer continues to be the most common cancer worldwide, and represents the leading cause of cancer death among women. It is estimated that the prevalence in Spain in 2023 is 151,945 women, as shown by the Spanish Association Against Cancer (AECC). Given this situation and to help in the management of cancer, Cigna Healthcare has published the guide “Cancer in the Company II”, in which various strategies for the management of breast cancer are addressed, among others. Furthermore, on the occasion of World Breast Cancer Daythe health insurer’s experts wanted to share a series of tips so that 40-year-old women can take care of their health and establish preventive strategies that ensure a better quality of life in subsequent decades:
- Manage neophobia and accept changes. Facing the fear of the unknown, or neophobia, that arises after 40 can be an emotional challenge for many women. In this context, it is essential not only recognize these fears and give them space, but also accept that they are part of a process of natural change. This implies understanding that both physical and emotional transformations are inevitable and manageable, which helps reduce the feeling of vulnerability. Instead of resisting changes, allowing yourself to experience them with awareness and empathy facilitates better adaptation. Taking the time to adjust your lifestyle and routines to these new needs is key to going through this stage with serenity and optimism, allowing for a greater connection with personal well-being.
- Create a solid support network. Having a circle of support is essential to cope with physical, emotional and social challenges that can arise after 40. Having people to confide in, whether family, friends or even health professionals, can make a big difference in how you deal with this stage. Share concerns and experiences with other women going through similar situations It can offer emotional relief, feeling understood and accompanied in the process.
- Do not postpone medical check-ups. At 40, many women find themselves balancing personal, family, and work responsibilities, which can cause them to neglect their own well-being. It is important to remember that self-care is also a way of caring for others. Schedule regular medical checkupssuch as mammograms, bone densitometry, and routine exams, and pay attention to body changesmay seem difficult in the midst of daily responsibilities, but it is an essential act of self-care. Prioritizing health is not only key to physical and emotional well-being, but also to continuing to be present on a personal level in a healthy and fulfilling way.
- Practice the combo antiaging. From the age of 40, the metabolism begins to slow down and the loss of bone and muscle mass accelerates, which increases our risk of osteoporosis, makes it more difficult to burn calories and can lead to weight gain at the expense of an increase in body fat. This happens even if you maintain the same eating and exercise habits. In order to try to maintain muscle mass, it is key to lead an active life by incorporating a physical activity routine that includes strength exercises. The reality is that a routine of Regular exercise that combines cardiovascular and resistance exercise becomes essential to prevent overweight and the risk of different types of cancer, including breast cancer. And strength training, or resistance, improves hormonal response and resilience of the musculoskeletal system, helping to prepare the body for more drastic changes. Regarding food must be included foods rich in fiber, that are nutritionally dense with a moderate caloric and carbohydrate intake. You must also monitor your protein intake, prioritizing legumes, fish and white meat and maintaining a calcium intake from 1,200 to 1,400 mg per day.
- Take care of hormones for a healthy transition. The hormonal changes characteristic of menopause can begin to appear up to 10 years before the last period. This phase is known as perimenopause and, therefore, it can begin from the age of 40. From this age onwards, it is essential to pay attention to hormonal changes and how they affect both physical and emotional health. Maintain hormonal balance through healthy lifestyle habits and, in some cases, supervised medical treatments, can help reduce symptoms, such as hot flashes, night sweats, irritability, anxiety, or sleep problems. As for hormone replacement therapy, it can be beneficial in relieving certain menopausal symptoms, as well as reducing bone density loss and improving cardiovascular risk. However, should not be considered as a primary prevention measure against breast cancer and, in fact, it should be prescribed with caution in women at high risk. It is essential to consult with a specialist to better understand how hormonal changes affect the body and evaluate the most appropriate and personalized options, based on each woman’s health profile and specific needs.
The guide “Cancer in the Company II: current challenges facing the most diagnosed cancers” is available to download through this link.