The Top 10 Warning Signs of Breast Cancer
Experts from organizations like the Mayo Clinic and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) highlight these common signs. Remember, most breast changes are not cancer, but any persistent change deserves medical evaluation.
Here are the 10 signs you should never ignore:
10. Persistent Breast Pain or Tenderness
Many believe breast cancer is always painless, but that’s not true. Ongoing ache or tenderness that doesn’t go away with your menstrual cycle or usual remedies can sometimes be a signal.
9. Swelling in the Armpit or Collarbone Area
Enlarged lymph nodes can cause swelling even when no breast change is visible. This subtle sign often surprises women because it’s not directly on the breast.
8. Nipple Retraction or Inversion
A nipple that suddenly turns inward or flattens, especially if it wasn’t like that before, warrants attention. It can happen gradually and without pain.
7. Unusual Nipple Discharge
Clear, bloody, or spontaneous fluid from one nipple—not related to breastfeeding or squeezing—should be checked promptly.
6. Redness or Flaky Skin on the Breast or Nipple
Skin that looks irritated, inflamed, or flaky (like eczema) and doesn’t improve with usual creams may indicate inflammatory breast cancer, a rarer but aggressive type.
5. Dimpling or Puckering of the Breast Skin
Skin that resembles an orange peel or shows visible pulling inward can suggest underlying tissue changes.
4. Thickening or Hardening in Breast Tissue
An area that feels denser or thicker than the surrounding tissue—not always a distinct lump—can be concerning.
3. Change in Breast Size or Shape
Noticeable asymmetry or one breast becoming larger without an obvious reason like weight gain should be evaluated.
