Breast Cancer Awareness Month: 4 Common Symptoms of Breast Cancer

Breast cancer is the most common cancer prevalent among the global women population. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), breast cancer impacts almost 2.1 million women all around the world and results in the highest number of cancer-related deaths. It is also claimed that the rate of breast cancer is increasing all over the world. However, the condition is treatable if it is diagnosed in the early stages.

According to medical experts, certain changes in the breast may indicate early signs of breast cancer. Thus, it is important for women to regularly examine their breasts and contact a medical professional with immediate effect in case any unusual change is noticed.

Here are some common symptoms of breast cancer that one should not ignore:

1. Lumps

Breast tissue is lumpy in texture. However, unusual lumps are one of the most prominent symptoms of breast cancer that shouldn’t be ignored at any cost. According to medical experts, one cannot see the lumps but can feel them. Women may experience unusual lumps or swelling in the breast, upper chest or armpits.

2. Nipple discharge

Nipple discharge refers to the seeping out of fluid from the nipples. Though it’s a normal phenomenon during breastfeeding days, it can be a symptom of breast cancer if it happens for other reasons.

According to medical experts, women may observe unusual thick or thin discharge from the nipples that may vary in color, ranging from clear, milky, yellow, to red.

3. Breast/Nipple pain

Breast cancer potentially initiates changes in the skin cells that can lead to a feeling of pain, tenderness or discomfort. However, pain is not a solid symptom as it can also be a result of some minor ailments that can be easily treated with pharmaceutical products. But if the pain persists for a long period of time, one should consider medical assistance.

4. Other changes

Prevalence of breast cancer can cause some noticeable and unusual changes to the breast. Some of them include: