Cancer signs women should NEVER IGNORE

Sometimes it can feel like there’s too much information to take in. But when it comes to breast and gynae cancers, what’s really worth remembering? Here are the warning signs...

1

A CHANGE IN BREAST SIZE OR SHAPE

This may be difficult to spot if changes happen gradually over time. And it’s perfectly normal for your breasts to change throughout your life, especially during your menstrual cycle and just before, during and after the menopause when oestrogen levels decrease, with an effect on the size, shape and softness of your breasts. To help you spot changes swiftly, try building a breast check into your regular routine. Doing it while you’re washing in the shower or bath is a great opportunity. Look at your breasts and feel them, as well as checking your chest area and underneath your arms.

2

A LUMP OR AREA OF THICKENED TISSUE

This is usually the first noticeable symptom of breast cancer, although it’s worth remembering that most lumps (around 90%) are not cancerous. They’re usually harmless cysts (a build-up of fluid) or due to other conditions, such as fibroadenoma.

3

A LUMP OR SWELLING IN YOUR ARMPIT

As well as lumps in the breast, another key sign is lumps or pain in the armpits – where your lymph nodes are located. So include your armpits when checking your breasts, and don’t forget your chest area, up to your collarbone. Any changes and rashes should be brought to your doctor’s attention.

4

A CHANGE TO YOUR NIPPLE

Report any change in position or shape, or if it appears to be sunken or inverted.

5

A NIPPLE DISCHARGE

Lots of women have a discharge

from the nipples, which isn’t a sign of anything serious. It may just be normal for you or could be due to other causes, such as an infection, a blocked milk duct, breastfeeding or pregnancy, or a side effect of certain medication, such as the contraceptive pill. But it’s worth talking to your GP about it, especially if: ✢ it’s only happening on one side ✢ it’s bloodstained or smells ✢ it happens regularly, rather than a one-off ✢ it’s accompanied by any of these other symptoms ✢ you’re over 50 years old

6 A RASH

This may appear as redness or a skin rash on your breasts or on your chest area. See your GP, as it could indicate inflammatory breast cancer, an aggressive form of cancer.

7

A CHANGE IN BREAST SKIN TEXTURE

Look out for a puckering or dimpling of your skin (which makes it look like orange peel, for example) and discuss any changes with your GP. Breast pain isn’t usually a symptom of cancer, but it can be, so again it’s worth mentioning to your doctor.

✢ If you’d like to talk to a breast cancer nurse, call the Breast Cancer Care helpline on 0808 800 600 or visit breastcancercare.org.uk >>