Early Signs of Breast Cancer Every Woman Should Know
Breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer among women globally. In 2024, an estimated 2.4 million women were diagnosed with breast cancer worldwide (https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/breast-cancer). While breast cancer can occur at any age after puberty, the risk generally increases with age.
Understanding the early signs of breast cancer can help women recognise changes that may require medical evaluation. Early diagnosis and timely treatment are important for improving breast cancer outcomes.
What Are the Early Signs of Breast Cancer?
Breast cancer does not always present with noticeable symptoms, particularly in its early stages. Changes can vary between individuals, which is why being familiar with your usual breast health can be helpful.- A New Lump or Area of Thickening A newly detected lump or localised thickening in the breast or underarm can be a potential sign of breast cancer. Breast cancer may present without pain, and many breast lumps have benign causes. However, any new or persistent lump should be clinically evaluated.
- Changes in Breast Size or Shape A new or unexplained change in the size, shape or appearance of one or both breasts may warrant medical evaluation, particularly when the change persists or is noticeably different from your usual breast appearance.
- Changes in the Skin Persistent changes in the skin of the breast, including redness, thickening, swelling or a change in its usual texture, can sometimes be associated with breast cancer. New or unexplained skin changes should be discussed with a healthcare professional.
- Changes in the Nipple A newly inverted nipple or another persistent change in the appearance of the nipple or surrounding area may require medical assessment.
- Unusual Nipple Discharge Unexplained nipple discharge, particularly spontaneous discharge or discharge containing blood, should be medically evaluated. Nipple discharge can have several causes and does not necessarily indicate cancer.
- Changes in the Underarm Area The lymph nodes under the arm can be affected by breast cancer. New or persistent swelling or a lump in the underarm area, particularly alongside other breast changes, should be assessed by a healthcare professional.
