Breast cancer is one of the leading cause of death in women after lung cancer. But if we know the most common signs and symptoms of this deadly diseases, we can find many ways to reduce the risk.
According to the American Cancer Society (ACS), there are more than 3.1 million breast cancer survivors in the United States. The chance of any woman dying from breast cancer is around 1 in 38 (2.6%).
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Women over 50 are more at risk of developing Breast Cancer compared to younger women.
The Know Your Lemons campaign, an NGO working towards improving early detection for breast cancer worldwide founded by Dr Corrine Ellsworth-Beaumont, pointed out 12 breast changes that require immediate medical attention:
- Hard lump
- Thick area
- Dimple
- Nippe crust
- Red or warm
- New fluid
- Skin sores
- Bump
- Sunken nipple
- Growing vein
- New shape or size
- Orange peel skin, where the skin looks like a dimpled orange
Hard lump
A “hard lump” may feel “like a lemon seed” that is usually immovable; difficult to find, it can be any shape or size and can be identified by Mammograms only.
Thick area
Any thickened area of that breast that doesn’t go away should raise alarm bells.
People may describe the thicker area as felling more “dense”, but it can be a normal part of menstruation or breastfeeding when it comes and goes.
Dimple
Looking into a mirror, topless, and raising your arms above your head – in good lighting – can identify dimples in the breast.
Nipple crust
“Scab-like red or white” crust around the nipple, not attributed to eczema or breastfeeding, needs to be investigated – and it may feel sore.
Red or warm
Swollen, red breasts may feel warm or hot to touch, and there may be a burning sensation.
New fluid
Clear or blood-infused fluid leaking out of the nipple needs to be discussed with your doctor.
Skin sores
An open wound on the breast is usually indicative of advanced breast cancer when it’s accompanied by a hard lump.
Bump
Any bumps that don’t go away need to be brought to the attention of your doctor.
Sunken nipple
However, if the nipple is “sinking, flattening, or turning, it could be a sign of breast cancer”.
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Growing vein
Considered rare, an enlarged or new vein might signal breast cancer if it’s not linked to weight gain or breastfeeding.