Breast Cancer: Warning Signs and When to See a Doctor

Breast cancer can affect women and, less commonly, men. Recognising an unusual breast change and seeking medical care promptly can lead to earlier diagnosis and more effective treatment.

What is breast cancer?

Breast cancer develops when abnormal cells in the breast grow uncontrollably and form a tumour. These cells may remain within the breast or spread to nearby lymph nodes and other parts of the body.

Most breast lumps are not cancer, but every new or unexplained lump should be assessed by a qualified healthcare professional.

Warning signs to check

Possible signs of breast cancer include:

• A new lump or thickened area in the breast
• A lump or swelling in the armpit
• A change in the size or shape of a breast
• Dimpling, puckering or thickening of the breast skin
• Redness, scaling or another persistent skin change
• A nipple becoming inverted or changing position
• Unusual nipple discharge, particularly if it contains blood
• A persistent change around the nipple or areola
• Breast pain that does not go away

Breast cancer lumps are often painless. Do not wait for a lump to become painful before seeking medical care.

When should you see a doctor?

Arrange a medical assessment when you discover a new breast lump or notice a persistent change that is not normal for you.

Seek care even if:

• The lump does not hurt
• You are breastfeeding
• You recently had a normal examination
• You are younger than the usual screening age
• There is no history of breast cancer in your family

Approximately 80% of breast cancers occur in women without a specific risk factor other than being female and growing older. A person should therefore not dismiss a symptom simply because cancer does not run in the family.

Can men develop breast cancer?

Yes. Breast cancer in men is uncommon, but it can occur. Men should seek medical advice for a lump behind or close to the nipple, nipple discharge, inversion of the nipple or an unexplained change in the chest or nipple area.

What happens during assessment?

The healthcare professional will ask when the change began, whether it has changed and whether there is a personal or family history of breast or ovarian cancer.

Assessment may include:

• A clinical breast examination
• Breast ultrasound
• Mammography
• A biopsy to collect a small tissue sample

Being referred for tests does not mean that cancer has been diagnosed. Tests are needed to determine the cause of the change.

Breast awareness and screening

Become familiar with the usual look and feel of your breasts. There is no single correct way to check, but looking and feeling regularly can make it easier to notice a change.

Breast screening uses imaging to look for cancer before symptoms appear. The appropriate screening method and timing depend on age, medical history, family history and available national guidance.

Speak with a healthcare professional about whether screening is appropriate for you. People with a strong family history or known inherited risk may require earlier or different surveillance.

Reducing breast cancer risk

No prevention method removes all risk, but the following may support overall health and reduce the risk of several diseases:

• Maintain a healthy weight
• Exercise regularly
• Avoid tobacco
• Limit alcohol
• Discuss the risks and benefits of long-term hormonal medicines with a clinician
• Attend recommended screening and follow-up appointments

Early assessment matters

A breast change is not something to hide or treat with unprescribed medicine. Many breast conditions are not cancerous, but early assessment provides reassurance or allows treatment to begin promptly.

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Medical notice: This article provides general information and does not diagnose breast cancer. Seek professional assessment for every new or unexplained breast change.

Sources: World Health Organization—Breast cancer and Federal Ministry of Health—National Cancer Control Programme.