- Most of us know that an early sign of breast cancer can be a lump in the breast, but it can be difficult to know what you are looking for.
Being 'breast aware' can help you to recognise changes in your breasts that are not normal for you.
What's normal?
The first thing to remember is that every woman's breasts are different.
Get to know how your breasts normally look and feel - but remember that they may change at different stages of your menstrual cycle (before the menopause). This is because the milk-producing tissue in your breast is active for a few days before you get your period. During this time some women notice that their breasts feel tender and lumpy.
Getting to know what is normal for you will help you spot any changes.
How they look
Just by looking at your breasts you will be able to see if the outline or shape of them has changed, especially when you raise your arms or the breasts themselves. Keep an eye out for any dimpling or puckering of the skin.
How they feel
Get used to how your breasts feel at different times of the month. Do this whenever it suits you, but it does not have to be in a particular way or at a particular time.
Feel for any lumps, thickening or bumpy areas in the breast and armpit that are different from the same area on the other side.
Any discomfort or pain in one breast that is new and persistent also counts as a significant change.
Your nipples
Keep an eye out for any nipple discharge that is new but not milky. Also take note of bleeding or moist red areas, rash on or around the nipple, or changes in the position.
What do I do if I notice a change?
There are many reasons for changes like these and most of them are not serious.
In fact, 9 out of 10 breast lumps are benign, which means they are not cancerous. However, you should always visit your GP as soon as possible to be on the safe side. If there is a breast cancer present, the sooner it is diagnosed, the better the chance of successful treatment.
If you are over 50, it is also recommended that you have a regular mammogram, which is an x-ray procedure that detects early breast changes. Your GP will be able to tell you about the NHS Breast Screening Programme, which provides free screening every three years for all women over 50 in the UK. Women aged between 50 and 70 are routinely invited to attend a breast screening appointment.
Women over the age of 70 are not routinely invited for screening, but are encouraged to contact their local screening unit and request screening every three years.
If you have a family history of breast cancer (for example, your mother or sister have been affected by the disease), you may be at increased risk yourself. Your GP will be able to give you more information on family history of breast cancer, and advise whether you may be a candidate for monitoring on a more frequent basis.