Common Signs of Breast Cancer You Should Know

Breast cancer is a type of cancer that forms in the cells of the breast. It can occur in both women and men, although it is far more common in women. The exact cause of breast cancer is not fully understood, but factors such as genetics, hormonal influences, and lifestyle choices may play a role.

Breast cancer can cause specific symptoms, but it's important to remember that these signs can also be due to other non-cancerous conditions. Many people with breast cancer don't show any symptoms at all when first diagnosed.

Important Points to Remember;
- Often, there are no symptoms when breast cancer is first diagnosed.
- Breast cancer symptoms can include lumps, skin changes, pain, and nipple discharge.
- These symptoms can also be caused by other, less serious conditions.
- Always talk to your doctor if you notice any changes in your breasts or nipples. Early diagnosis can improve outcomes.

Lumps in the Breast or Armpit
The most common sign of breast cancer is a hard lump in the breast or under the arm. Over 80% of women with breast cancer who have symptoms report a lump. These lumps can vary in size and often feel hard with uneven edges. Most lumps are painless.

Skin Changes
Breast cancer can cause several changes in the skin of your breast or nipple, such as:
- Redness
- Peeling or flakiness
- Scaliness
- Dimpling or puckering
- Irritation or itchiness
- Warmth or hardness

A rare type of breast cancer called inflammatory breast cancer can cause the skin to look like an orange peel, with pink, red, or purple skin over at least a third of the breast.

Pain
Breast cancer can sometimes cause pain in the breast or nipple, which might be deep inside the breast or on the surface.

 Changes in Appearance
Cancer can cause swelling or thickening of part of the breast or underarm area. The breast might change in size or shape, making it look uneven. Tumors can also make the nipple look different, such as making it flat or pulled inward.

 Nipple Discharge
Breast cancer often starts in the milk glands or ducts, which can lead to nipple discharge. This discharge might be clear, yellowish, greenish, or bloody, and can sometimes look like pus or be thin.

Rare Symptoms
In its later stages, breast cancer might cause bone pain, unexpected weight loss, back pain, or skin ulcers. However, these are less common. Regular exams and screenings help detect breast cancer early, before these symptoms appear.

Other Causes of Breast Symptoms
Breast changes are often due to conditions other than cancer. Here are some common non-cancerous causes:

Fibrocystic changes ;

Many women experience lumpy and painful breasts before or during their period.

Breast cysts ;

 These are fluid-filled lumps that can also cause pain or nipple discharge.

Fibroadenomas ;

These are benign tumors that feel like hard, painless lumps.

Mastitis ;

This infection, usually during breastfeeding, makes the breast lumpy and sore.

Mammary duct ectasia ;

Blocked milk ducts can cause pain, redness, discharge, and lumps.

Fat necrosis;

This can happen after breast surgery or radiation therapy, leading to lumps that may look bruised.

Breast changes can also occur during menstrual cycles, pregnancy, breastfeeding, or menopause. Certain medications can also cause nipple discharge.

Latest Research and Advances
Recent studies highlight the importance of genetic testing and personalized treatment. For example, BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations significantly increase breast cancer risk. New treatments like PARP inhibitors are promising for these cases.

Advances in imaging, such as 3D mammography, have improved cancer detection accuracy. This reduces follow-up imaging and finds more invasive cancers.

Immunotherapy, which helps the immune system attack cancer cells, is another promising area of research.

Diagnosing Breast Cancer
Regular breast self-exams can help detect changes. During a self-exam, raise one arm and feel your breast and armpit for lumps or other changes.

However, you can't diagnose cancer on your own. Mammograms and ultrasounds allow doctors to see inside breast tissue. If necessary, a biopsy can examine a small piece of tissue under a microscope. Since breast cancer often has no early symptoms, regular mammograms are crucial for early detection.

Overall , Knowing the signs of breast cancer helps with early detection and treatment.  It's important to consult with a doctor to rule out cancer. Regular screenings and staying informed about new research can significantly improve outcomes.