Early Detection Signs of Breast Cancer

• A lump is detected, which is usually single, firm, and most often painless.
• A portion of the skin on the breast or underarm swells and has an unusual appearance.
• Veins on the skin surface become more prominent on one breast.
• The breast nipple becomes inverted, develops a rash, changes in skin texture, or has a discharge other than breast milk.
• A depression is found in an area of the breast surface.

Women's breasts can develop some degree of lumpiness, but only a small percentage of lumps are malignant.

While a history of breast cancer in the family may lead to increased risk, most breast cancers are diagnosed in women with no family history. If you have a family history of breast cancer, this should be discussed with your doctor.

Source: National Breast Cancer Foundation, Inc.

http://nationalbreastcancer.org/early_detection/index.html

Retrieved on September 28, 2006