Online Reporter
Every October, Breast Cancer Awareness Month reminds people to pay attention to their breast health and learn to recognise changes that could signal something is wrong.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), breast cancer is the most common cancer in women in 157 countries out of 185 in 2022.
Recognising the warning signs and seeking medical attention when unusual changes occur can help people receive a diagnosis and treatment as early as possible.
While not every breast change means cancer, it is important to know what to look out for. Breast cancer can affect women of all ages, as well as men.
Here are seven warning signs you should never ignore, based on information from the WHO:
A lump in your breast or armpit
One of the most recognised warning signs of breast cancer is a new lump or thickening in the breast or armpit.
The lump may feel hard or different from the surrounding tissue, and it may not cause any pain.
However, not all lumps are cancerous, and some may be caused by harmless conditions.
Do not wait for a lump to become painful before seeking medical advice. Any new or unusual lump should be checked by a healthcare professional.
A change in the size or shape of your breast
Breasts naturally come in different sizes, and it is normal for one to be slightly larger than the other.
However, a sudden or unexplained change in the size or shape of one breast could be a warning sign that needs medical attention.
Look out for unusual swelling, changes in appearance or a difference that was not there before.
Dimpling or puckering of the skin
Have you noticed that the skin on your breast looks different from usual?
Breast cancer can cause the skin to develop dimples, puckering or an uneven texture. In some cases, the skin may resemble the surface of an orange.
These changes can be subtle, so it is important to pay attention to the appearance and texture of your breasts.
Changes to your nipple
A nipple that suddenly turns inwards, becomes flattened or changes position could be a warning sign.
Although some people naturally have inverted nipples, a new change in the shape or direction of a nipple should not be ignored.
Pay attention to changes affecting one or both nipples, particularly when they occur alongside other unusual breast symptoms.
Unusual nipple discharge
Nipple discharge is not always a sign of cancer, but certain changes need medical attention.
Look out for fluid coming from the nipple when you are not breastfeeding, particularly if it is bloody or appears without squeezing the nipple.
If you notice unexplained discharge, arrange an assessment with a healthcare professional to establish the cause.
Redness, swelling or a rash on the breast
Changes to the skin around the breast or nipple can sometimes indicate an underlying problem.
Watch for unexplained redness, swelling, a rash, scaly skin or irritation around the nipple.
On darker skin, redness may appear as a darker or reddish-brown area, so changes in colour and texture are both important.
These symptoms can also result from infections or other non-cancerous conditions. However, persistent or unusual changes should be examined by a healthcare professional.
Persistent pain in the breast or armpit
Breast pain is common and is not usually caused by cancer. Hormonal changes, menstruation and other conditions can cause discomfort.
However, persistent or unexplained pain in the breast or armpit, particularly when accompanied by a lump, swelling or skin changes, should be assessed.
Do not assume that the absence of pain means everything is fine. Breast cancer can develop without causing pain, which is why it is important to recognise other warning signs too. — iolnews.
