Breast cancer is a formidable foe. According to the World
Health Organization, an estimated 627,000 women lost
their lives to breast cancer in 2018. But women are not
helpless in the fight against breast cancer, as the WHO
notes early detection is critical and could potentially save
thousands of lives each year.
A proactive approach is a key component of protecting
oneself against breast cancer. While the National Breast
Cancer Foundation, Inc.® notes that many breast cancer
symptoms are invisible and not noticeable without a professional
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cancer screening, women can keep an eye out
for certain signs of breast cancer they might be able to
detect on their own. Monthly self-exams can help women
more easily identify changes in their breasts. During such
self-exams, women can look for the following signs and
symptoms and are advised to report any abnormalities
they discover to their physicians immediately.
Changes in how the breast or nipple feels: The NBCF says
nipple tenderness or a lump or thickening in or near the breast or
underarm could indicate the presence of breast cancer. Some women
may notice changes in the skin texture or an enlargement of the pores
in the skin of their breast. In many instances, skin texture has been
described as being similar to the texture of an orange peel. Lumps in
the breast also may indicate breast cancer, though
not all lumps are cancerous.
Change in appearance of the breast or nipple: Unexplained
changes in the size or shape of the breast;
dimpling anywhere on the breast; unexplained
swelling or shrinking of the breast, particularly when
the shrinking or swelling is exclusive to one side
only; and a nipple that is turned slightly inward or
inverted are some signs and symptoms of breast
cancer that can affect the appearance of the breast
or nipple. It is common for women’s breasts to be
asymmetrical, but sudden asymmetry should be
brought to the attention of a physician.
Discharge from the nipple: The NBCF notes that any
discharge from the nipple, but particularly a clear or
bloody discharge, could be a sign of breast cancer.
The NBCF also advises women that a milky discharge
when they are not breastfeeding is not linked
to breast cancer but should be discussed with a physician.
Learning to recognize the signs and symptoms of breast cancer can
increase the likelihood of early diagnosis, which greatly improves
women’s chances of surviving this disease.
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