Breast Cancer Warning Signs

Everyone has breast tissue. That means anyone — regardless of sex — can get breast cancer. The good news? Monthly self-exams at home can help detect lumps and other breast changes early — when cancer is most treatable.

Causes

While hereditary factors can play a role in breast cancer risk, up to 95% of cases are sporadic. That means they happen without a known cause and experts can’t predict when they’ll happen. That’s why it’s so important to know the warning signs.

Warning Signs

Self-exams can help you spot breast cancer warning signs like:

• Breast lumps. These may be hard, soft, smooth or round.
• Small, hardened areas. These areas may not feel exactly like lumps, but they don’t feel quite normal, either.
• Changes in size or shape. This is especially true if changes are sudden or occur in one breast but not the other.
• Skin changes. Scaly, dimpled or puckered skin on your breast or nipple could indicate a more serious issue. You should also keep an eye out for skin discoloration and inflammation.
• Nipple discharge. This includes clear or reddish fluid leaking from your nipple.

Having these symptoms doesn’t necessarily mean you have breast cancer. But if you develop one or more of them, it’s important to tell your healthcare provider.

What Does a Normal Breast Feel Like?

Breast tissue is naturally fibrous and bumpy. But some people have lumpier breasts than others. Generally, both of your breasts should feel similar. If one feels noticeably different from the other, it’s a good idea to tell your healthcare provider.

How Often Should I Do a Self-Exam?

Most healthcare providers recommend doing breast cancer self-exams monthly. This helps you become familiar with your breasts, so you can know what’s normal for you — and what’s not.

When Should I Do My Self-Exams?

It’s best to check your breasts at the same time each month. If you menstruate, do your self-exam three to five days after your period ends. If you don’t menstruate, choose one day a month that’s easy to remember.

How To Do a Breast Cancer Self-Exam

There are a few different ways to do a breast self-exam. Here are the basic steps:

1. Use your left hand to examine your right breast, and vice versa.
2. Feel for any lumps, bumps or other abnormalities.
3. Use the pads of your three middle fingers to press on every part of your breast.
4. Use varying amounts of pressure, starting with light, then firm.

In addition to mammograms, monthly self-checks can help you spot breast changes when or if they happen. Take an active role in your health with breast self-exams.