There are a variety of symptoms that could indicate breast cancer. It’s important to be aware of them
Chest pain can often be dismissed as a harmless ailment, but it could also be a sign of one of the most common cancers diagnosed in women in the UK. And that’s particularly so when accompanied by other symptoms.
Breast cancer is the most prevalent cancer diagnosed in the UK, making up 15% of all new cancer cases, according to Cancer Research UK. Each year, there are 56,900 recorded cases, equating to more than 150 diagnoses every day and accounting for 30% of all new female cancer cases annually.
Whilst survival rates for breast cancer have seen a significant increase over the past half-century in the UK, it’s crucial to remember that early diagnosis plays a key role in this improvement. Almost all women with breast cancer survive for five years or more when the disease is detected at its earliest stage, says Cancer Research UK.
If you’re not someone who regularly undergoes screenings for breast cancer, don’t hesitate to book one if you notice any unusual symptoms.
Common symptoms of breast cancer
The treatment and its effectiveness for breast cancer can vary greatly depending on several factors, including how much the cancer has grown and whether it has spread to other parts of the body. According to NHS guidance, symptoms of breast cancer can include:
- Pain in your breast or armpit that doesn’t go away
- Changes in the skin of the breast, such as redness
- A lump or swelling in the breast, armpit or chest area
- A change in size or shape of one or both breasts
- Chage in shape or look of your nipple
- Discharge from the nipple, which may have blood on it, if you’re not pregnant or breastfeeding
The NHS strongly recommends seeing a GP if you notice a lump or swelling in your breast, chest or armpit, and if you have persistent pain in these areas. Any other unusual changes in your breasts or nipples should also prompt a visit to the GP.
Breast cancer in men
Although breast cancer is more common in women, men can also be affected. NHS guidance emphasises that if men experience any of the same symptoms listed for women, they should also consult a GP.
The guidance also points out that men may develop sores or ulcers on their chest when they have breast cancer.
Further details on symptoms of breast cancer, and when to see a health professional, can be found on the NHS website here.