October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about the symptoms, prevention, and diagnosis of this disease. The key to early intervention is recognizing the signs of breast cancer as soon as possible.

Below, we explore the warning signs that may indicate breast cancer, based on information from “Healthline.”

Early Signs of Breast Cancer

While breast cancer often doesn’t present symptoms in its earliest stages, detecting it early can significantly improve treatment outcomes. Here are some of the early warning signs to watch for:

• Changes in the nipple’s shape
• Persistent breast pain, even after the menstrual cycle ends
• A new lump in the breast that doesn’t disappear after your period
• Nipple discharge, which could be clear, red, brown, or yellow
• Unexplained redness, swelling, irritation, itching, or rash on the breast
• Lumps or swelling around the collarbone or underarm
• Hard lumps with irregular edges, often a sign of cancer

Later Signs of Breast Cancer

As the disease progresses, additional symptoms may develop, including:

• Nipple retraction (nipple turning inward)
• Enlargement of one breast
• Dimpling of the breast skin
• Skin that resembles an orange peel in texture
• Loss of appetite
• Unintentional weight loss
• Swollen lymph nodes in the armpit
• Prominent veins visible on the breast

It’s essential to note that experiencing one or more of these symptoms does not automatically mean you have breast cancer. For example, nipple discharge can also be caused by infections. Therefore, it’s crucial to consult a healthcare provider for a proper diagnosis if any of these symptoms arise.

Signs of Male Breast Cancer

Though rare, breast cancer can affect men at any age, though it is more common in older men. Many may not realize that people assigned male at birth also have breast tissue, which can undergo cancerous changes. While breast cancer is less common in men due to less developed breast cells, it still occurs.

The most common symptom in men is a lump in the breast tissue. Other signs of male breast cancer include:

Breast Tissue Changes to Watch For

• Thickening of the breast tissue
• Nipple discharge
• Redness or scaling around the nipple
• Nipple retraction or turning inward
• Unexplained redness, swelling, itching, or rashes on the breast

While breast cancer in men is rare, it’s often diagnosed late since men don’t regularly examine their breast tissue for abnormalities, such as lumps.

What Does a Breast Lump Mean?

A lump in the breast doesn’t automatically indicate cancer. It can also be a symptom of other conditions, including:

• Breast infection or inflammation
• Fibrocystic breast disease, a condition that causes lumpy or dense breast tissue
• Fibroma, a non-cancerous tumor
• Fat necrosis, where damaged tissue forms a lump

Is Breast Cancer Linked to Pain?

Typically, breast cancer is not associated with pain. However, breast pain can arise from various factors, such as:

• Hormonal changes related to menstruation
• Certain birth control pills
• Some fertility treatments
• Wearing an ill-fitting bra
• Breast cysts
• Stress

Diagnosing Breast Cancer

A breast cancer diagnosis requires medical tests. These may include:

Physical Examination

A healthcare professional will examine the breasts and surrounding skin for lumps, nipple issues, and any discharge. They will also check the armpits for lumps.

Medical History

Your doctor will ask about your family history, particularly regarding breast cancer, as a genetic link can increase the risk.

Mammogram

An X-ray of the breast can help differentiate between benign and malignant lumps.

Ultrasound

Ultrasound imaging provides a detailed view of the breast tissue.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)

In some cases, an MRI scan may be recommended to assess breast tissue more thoroughly, in combination with other tests.

Breast Biopsy

A biopsy involves removing a small sample of breast tissue for laboratory testing to determine if cancer cells are present.