Breast Cancer Signs and Symptoms

According to the NHS, ‘Breast cancer is the most common cancer in the UK. About 46,000 women get breast cancer in the UK each year.’ The risk of getting breast cancer is higher the older you are but unlike some other cancers, this type can be easier to detect early on.

Performing Checks

It’s important to understand how to perform checks on the breasts and be breast aware so you can detect any changes or developments at an early stage as early diagnosis is essential in treating cancer. You can carry out simple monthly checks of the breasts yourself, according to the charity Breakthrough Breast Awareness , ‘it’s as easy as TLC’…

TOUCH your breasts. Can you feel anything unusual?
LOOK for any changes. Is there any change in shape and texture?
CHECK anything unusual with your doctor.

Lumps

One of the first signs that women may notice when performing a check could be a lump, most lumps aren’t cancerous (they are benign) and can often be cysts. According to MacMillan Cancer Support, Breast cysts are quite common.Nearly 1 in 10 women will have a breast cyst at some time during her life. However, it’s always a good idea to have a cyst checked by a GP to make sure it is benign and to have treatment if necessary.

Other Symptoms

Other symptoms and signs to look out for when checking your breasts include any unusual thickening of the breast tissue, puckering or dimpling of the skin around the breast, nipple discharge, pain in the breast or around the armpit, a rash around the nipple or a change in the size and or shape of the breast.

Carrying Out Regular Checks

Carrying out regular checks on your breasts will make it easier for you to detect any changes and if you do detect any of the signs above or any other changes in your breasts then you should visit your GP for a check up.