Breast Cancer Awareness Month 2024
Breast cancer is cancer that starts in the breast tissue. It's the most common type of cancer in women in the UK but can develop in men too, although this is rare.
Who is more likely to get breast cancer
Anyone can get breast cancer and it's not always clear what causes it.
You might be more likely to get it if you:
- are over 50
- have dense breast tissue – you may be told this after a breast screening (mammogram)
- have other people in your family who've had breast or ovarian cancer – you may have inherited a faulty gene, such as a faulty BRCA gene
- have certain breast conditions, such as benign breast disease, ductal carcinoma in situ or lobular carcinoma in situ
- Many breast cancers are also linked to lifestyle, such as smoking.
Learn more about other risks and the things you can do to lower your chance of getting breast cancer here.
What are the symptoms of breast cancer?
Breast cancer can cause a number of signs and symptoms. See your GP if you notice a change to your breast that’s new or unusual for you.
Signs and symptoms of breast cancer include:
- A lump or swelling in the breast, upper chest or armpit
- A change to the skin, such as puckering or dimpling
- A change in the colour of the breast – the breast may look darker, red or inflamed
- A nipple change, for example it has become pulled in (inverted)
- Rash or crusting around the nipple
- Unusual liquid (discharge) from either nipple
- Changes in size or shape of the breast
See your GP if you notice a change
Most breast changes, including breast lumps, are not cancer. But the sooner breast cancer is found, the more successful treatment is likely to be.
Get any new or unusual changes checked by a GP.
How to check your breasts
There’s no special way to check your breasts and you do not need any training.
Checking your breasts is as easy as TLC:
- Touch your breasts: can you feel anything new or unusual?
- Look for changes: does anything look different to you?
- Check any new or unusual changes with a GP
Everyone will have their own way of touching and looking for changes. Get used to checking regularly and be aware of anything that’s new or different for you. Check your whole breast area, including up to your collarbone (upper chest) and armpits.
What will happen when I see my GP?
Your appointment may be over the phone or in person. If your appointment is in person, your GP will examine your breasts.
After speaking to you on the phone, or examining your breasts, your GP may:
- Decide there’s no need for further investigation
- Ask to see you again after a short time
- Refer you to a breast clinic
Being referred to a breast clinic doesn’t mean you have breast cancer, just that further assessment is needed to find out what is going on.
If your GP is male and you don’t feel comfortable going to see him, ask if there’s a female doctor or practice nurse available. You can also ask for a female nurse or member of staff to be present during your examination. Or you can take a friend or relative with you but check first if you are able to do this.
If you're worried about breast health or breast cancer you can speak to a breast care nurse at Breast Cancer Now for free on 0808 800 6000. The helpline is open Monday to Friday – 9am to 4pm; Saturday – 9am to 1pm.
