HOLLAND, Mich., Oct. 1, 2026 — Menopause often prompts conversations about hot flashes, sleep changes and hormone shifts, but Holland Hospital specialists say it should also serve as a reminder for women to stay current on preventive care, including recommended breast cancer screenings.
Throughout Menopause Awareness Month and Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Holland Hospital is encouraging women to stay informed about their health needs through every stage of life. Breast cancer risk increases with age, making menopause an important time for women to understand their personal risk factors.
Menopause typically occurs between ages 45-55 and marks the end of a woman's reproductive years. During this transition, women may experience symptoms such as hot flashes, sleep disturbances, mood changes and shifts in overall health.
“Menopause is much more than hot flashes,” said Lorene Dreisbach, DO, certified menopause provider and women's health specialist at Holland Hospital Women’s Specialty Care. “It can affect sleep, mood, bone health, heart health and overall quality of life. Women should feel empowered to discuss symptoms with their primary care provider and learn about the resources and treatment options available to them.”
According to Dr. Dreisbach, menopause is also an important time to evaluate risk factors for chronic conditions, including heart disease, osteoporosis and breast cancer. “Many women assume symptoms are simply something they have to live with, but there are effective ways to manage menopause and maintain long-term health,” she said.
While menopause is an important focus during October, healthcare experts say breast health should remain a priority throughout midlife and beyond.
“Breast cancer risk increases with age, which makes regular screening and awareness especially important during and after menopause,” said Hannah Clark, FNP-C, women's health provider at Holland Hospital. “Early detection remains one of our most effective tools for identifying breast cancer when treatment options are often less invasive and outcomes are generally better.”
Clark encourages women to discuss their individual risk factors with their primary care provider. Family history, genetic factors, breast density and certain lifestyle factors can all influence a woman's risk for breast cancer and may affect recommendations for screening and follow-up care. “Women with dense breast tissue, a family history of breast cancer or certain genetic factors may benefit from enhanced screening or additional monitoring,” she said.
Holland Hospital offers comprehensive breast care services, including screening mammograms, advanced diagnostic imaging, breast ultrasounds, biopsies, risk assessments and coordinated care for patients who require additional evaluation or treatment.
Dr. Dreisbach and Clark encourage women to take an active role in understanding their health risks and seeking care when concerns arise.
“Whether it's discussing menopause symptoms or understanding breast cancer risk, preventive care conversations are essential,” Dr. Dreisbach said. “Taking time to invest in your health today can have a lasting impact for years to come.”
As awareness campaigns throughout October draw attention to women's health issues, Holland Hospital encourages women to know their personal and family health history and discuss any health concerns with a trusted provider. To find a Holland Hospital primary care provider visit hollandhospital.org/primarycare and to schedule annual mammograms or screenings, visit hollandhospital.org/mammograms.
For those without insurance, who are underinsured or who have high deductibles, the Holland Hospital Breast Care Fund helps cover the cost of screening and diagnostic mammograms, including follow up services such as ultrasounds and biopsies. To learn more or donate to Holland Hospital’s Breast Care Fund, visit hollandhospital.org/breastcarefund.
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT
Jessica Meldrum, MS, APR
jmeldrum@hollandhospital.org
Oct. 1, 2026