Breast cancer is one of the most common types of cancer seen in women. The chances of survival in breast cancer becomes more difficult in higher stages of growth, i.e. stage 3 and stage 4. Remember, cancer is most easily treatable when detected early. Early detection and diagnosis can make a huge difference in the treatment outcomes. The symptoms of breast cancer can vary from one woman to another. However, knowing what to look out for can help in early detection at home and seek medical attention if required.

What is breast cancer?

Breast cancer as the name indicates involved cancer of the breast cells. 

• Some breast cells divide quickly and abnormally than other normal healthy breast cells.
• The rapid cell division results in the development of a mass of breast cells which may be malignant (cancerous) or benign (non-cancerous).
• Breast cancer can begin in one or both the breast and may involve the areola, nipples, milk ducts, glandular tissue, and skin area.

Causes of breast cancer

Breast cancer development in women can occur due to any of these reasons:

• Genetic changes
• Family history
• Gene mutation
• Getting older (ageing)
• Dense breasts
• Late pregnancy
• Lack of physical activity
• Smoking
• Alcohol consumption
• Exposure to radiation
• Being obese or overweight
• Hormonal therapy
• Reproductive history
• Early menopause

The risk of developing breast cancer increases as women age, especially when they are 30-50 years old.

Common warning signs of cancer

Breast cancer having malignant tumors may penetrate into the surrounding tissues and form another tumor there due to metastasis. Breast cancer symptoms vary from person to person. Initially, breast cancer may not show any symptoms. However, by self inspecting the breasts with the fingers, women may notice certain physical changes (abnormalities) and seek medical attention.

Here are some of the early warning signs that women can look out for when it comes to breast cancer.

Breast lump

• One of the most common early warning signs of breast cancer in women is the appearance of a lump in the breast area.
• While breasts are naturally lumps, the lumpiness caused due to breast cancer may vary in consistency, size, and shape.
• All breast lumps may not be cancerous. However, any unexplained lump in the breast should be medically examined by a doctor.
• Some breast lumps associated with cancer may be firm or hard. They may or may not be painful.
• Benign breast lumps are usually more soft and movable.
• If you notice any new unusual lump or painless mass in your breast area, it is vital to schedule a visit with your healthcare provider for proper examination. The doctor may recommend a mammogram, biopsy, ultrasound, or MRI to assess the lump further.

Lump in the armpit area

• A sudden or unexplained lump in the armpit (underarm) area can occur due to several reasons, one of them being breast cancer.
• The lump in the underarm or near the collar bone may be caused due to spread of the breast cancer cells to the lymph nodes in the armpits.
• Cancerous lymph nodes in the armpit may appear swollen, hard, and immovable.

Swelling or heaviness in the breast

• Swelling or heaviness in the entire breast or a part of it even without a lump is a may be a warning sign of breast cancer.
• Inflammatory breast cancer (IBC) which is a rare and aggressive form of cancer may cause swelling in and around the breast.
• Such breast swellings may or may not be detected with diagnostic mammograms.
• Women may experience red, itchy, and tender breasts.

Sudden changes in the breast appearance

• Sometimes a woman may observe sudden variations in the size, shape, and appearance of the breast which may be suggestive of an underlying problem.
• One breast looking different from the other (asymmetry), dimpling of the skin, redness, swelling, burning sensation, breast itching or irritation and heaviness may be some of the major concerning changes.
• If you notice any sudden visible changes in one or both the breasts, get in touch with a healthcare provider immediately.

Unexplained pain or discomfort in the breast or nipple area

• Pain and discomfort in the breast or nipple is common in women during their menstrual cycle. 
• However, unexplained, sudden and persistent pain not related to menses may be an indicative of benign or malignant condition.
• If you experience consistent breast pain, get it examined by a gynecologist immediately.

Unexpected nipple discharge

• Any unexpected nipple discharge that is clear and not breast milk should not be overlooked.
• Nipple discharge in women who are not lactating may be due to infection, injury, cancerous or non-cancerous conditions.
• If a bloody discharge occurs from the nipples, visit a doctor immediately without any delay.

Nipple retraction

A sudden inward pulling of the nipple (retraction) may be an early warning sign of a tumor growing behind it and requires medical attention.

Changes in the breast or nipple skin

• Changes in the breast or nipple skin can be a distinctive symptom of breast cancer.
• In case of breast cancer, a woman may experience redness, itching, scaliness, flaking, and thickening of the nipple or breast skin.

Early detection of breast cancer is the key to successful treatment and increases the chances of survival. Performing self-examination and attending regular professional screening sessions makes it possible for women to detect breast cancer in its initial stages, making a huge difference in starting the treatment early. If you witness any of the initial warning signs of breast cancer, do not ignore it and seek medical help immediately.