Breast cancer is one of the most common cancer types and affects approximately 2.1 million women each year globally. This makes it vital to understand its early signs and symptoms to identify the condition at initial stages when the chances of recovery are the highest. Diagnosis at a later stage reduces these chances and can also be fatal. In fact, 1 in 38 women (2.6%) has a chance of dying from breast cancer. Therefore, breast cancer awareness is quite crucial for women today. Find below necessary information and share it with your loved ones as well.

Early Signs of Breast Cancer

Women of all ages are recommended to perform monthly breast exams to identify any unexplained changes or abnormalities in their breasts for timely detection. Early signs that women should look for are:

• Consistent and localised breast pain which is not related to the menstruation cycle
• A lump, swelling or thickening in or around the breasts
• Changes in the size and shape of the breasts or nipples
• Abnormal nipple discharge
• Unexplained rashes, itchiness, skin irritation, swelling or redness on the breasts

On observing one or more of the above-mentioned signs, one should consult a doctor at the earliest.

Not All Lumps Are Cancerous

One should not panic on identifying a lump in the breast as in many cases, the lumps are found to be non-cancerous or benign. Causes may be:

• Fat necrosis
• Fibroadenoma
• Fibrocystic breast disease
• Breast infection

However, a lump should not be ignored since it is one of the most common warning signs of breast cancer. Hard lumps with irregular edges are more likely to be cancerous. Doctors usually recommend a biopsy to identify the actual cause of the lump and suggest a treatment plan accordingly.

Similarly, reasons behind breast pain other than cancer include:

• Menstruation-related hormonal changes
• A bra with improper fit
• Some infertility treatments
• Some birth control pills
• Large breasts that may cause pain in back, shoulder or neck as well
• Breast cysts
• Stress

Later Signs of Breast Cancer

The following signs and symptoms are usually observed in the later stages of breast cancer and indicate a need to see a doctor immediately.

• Enlarging of an existing lump
• Dimpling of the breast surface
• Inward turning or retraction of the nipple
• Unexplained weight loss
• Vaginal pain
• Visible veins on the breast
• Enlarged lymph nodes in the armpit

Again, having these signs and symptoms are not a certain indication of breast cancer. An infection or a benign tumour may also lead to such conditions. Hence, one should seek medical consultation to identify the real cause.

Signs of Breast Cancer in Men

Though rarely, men can also suffer from breast cancer. Common symptoms include:

• A lump in the breast
• Nipple retraction
• Nipple discharge
• Swelling or thickening of the breast
• Unexplained rash, itchiness, skin irritation, swelling or redness on the breast
• Scaling or redness of the nipple

Breast cancer in men is often diagnosed at an advanced stage since most men do not perform regular breast examination.

The Bottom Line

All of the signs and symptoms mentioned herein only indicate a possibility and does not necessarily mean that the person has breast cancer. Doctors perform a physical examination, check medical history, and may suggest diagnostic tests such as biopsy, mammogram, ultrasound and/or MRI to confirm the condition. Hence, one may contact HJ Hospitals in such a situation to seek world-class healthcare facilities as our oncology department is equipped with state-of-the-art technology and has treated hundreds of cancer patients successfully. To ensure the health and wellbeing of the people of Congo amid the COVID-19 pandemic, HJ Hospitals is also providing home care services such as doctor’s visit at home, doorstep delivery of medicines and sample collection to conduct diagnostic tests. So, keep checking our blog posts and health updates to stay informed and healthy.