The main symptom of breast cancer is usually a lump, or thickened area of tissue, in your breast. The majority of breast lumps are found by the women who have them, and it is very important that you are aware of any lumps, or changes in the appearance, feel, or shape of your breasts. This is important because the sooner a cancerous lump is detected, the better the chances are that it will be treated successfully.

Changes to look out for

You should see your doctor if you notice any of the following:

• a lump, or thickened area of tissue, in either breast,
• discharge from either of your nipples (which may be streaked with blood),
• a lump or swelling in either of your armpits,
• a change in the size, or shape, of one, or both, of your breasts,
• dimpling on the skin of your breasts,
• a rash on, or around, your nipple,
• a change in the appearance of your nipple, such as becoming sunken into your breast, or
• pain in either of your breasts or armpits which is not related to your period.

If you have a lump in your breast, it is important to remember that it may not be the result of breast cancer. In fact, 90% of breast lumps are benign (non-cancerous). For example, a breast lump may be caused by a harmless cyst (a small fluid-filled lump), or fibroadenoma (benign growths that are very common). You may also find that your breasts feel lumpy just before your period.

However, if you notice any changes to one, or both, of your breasts, as listed above, you should always get it checked by your doctor.

Breast awareness

It is important that you are breast aware and, if you find a lump on your breast, that you inform your doctor as soon as possible.

Get to know the way that your breasts normally look and feel because this will make any changes easier to spot.

You can check your breasts in the shower or bath, or before dressing. It is best to do this after your monthly period because your breasts can feel lumpy before your period is due.