Early Signs of Breast Cancer:
Early signs of breast cancer can be subtle and may not be noticeable to the individual, but regular self-exams and mammograms can help detect it early. It is important to know the normal look and feel of your breasts, so you can recognize any changes. Some early signs of breast cancer include:
- A lump or thickening in the breast or underarm area
- Changes in the size or shape of the breast
- Dimpling or puckering of the skin on the breast
- Redness, scaliness, or thickening of the breast skin or nipple
- Discharge from the nipple
- A change in the way the nipple points
- Itchy, scaly sore or a rash on the nipple
It’s worth noting that many of these symptoms can also be caused by non-cancerous conditions, such as cysts or fibroids. If you notice any changes in your breast, it’s important to see a doctor for an evaluation.
Additionally, mammography, which is an x-ray of the breast, and breast MRI are two methods that are used to detect breast cancer early. These screening tests can help to detect breast cancer before it causes any symptoms.
It’s important to mention that early detection of breast cancer can greatly increase the chances of survival. Regular self-exam and mammograms are the best ways to detect breast cancer early and it’s recommended that all women over the age of 50 should get a mammogram every 2 years, or earlier if you have a family history or other risk factors.
