Signs and symptoms of breast cancer
Recognising the signs of breast cancer early can save lives. Learn how to be breast aware – and what to look out for.
Breast symptoms or changes
Breast cancer can develop at any time. As such, it’s important to be breast aware even when you have breast screens every 2 years.
Be familiar with the normal look and feel of your breasts, so you can know if anything changes.
If you notice any breast symptoms or changes, speak to your doctor as a first step and get the symptoms checked. Do not visit BreastScreen Victoria.
Are all breast changes due to cancer?
No, not all breast changes are due to cancer.
Many changes, such as lumps, pain or differences in size or shape, can be caused by non-cancerous conditions like infections, cysts or hormonal fluctuations.
But you should get any new or unusual changes checked by a doctor as soon as possible. Early detection of breast cancer means early treatment – which greatly improves health outcomes.
Signs and symptoms to look out for
A change in the size or shape of your breasts
A change to the nipple such as crusting, redness
A nipple discharge (liquid) that occurs without squeezing
A new lump or lumpiness, especially if it’s only in one breast
A change in the skin, such as puckering or dimpling (like orange peel)
Your nipple becoming inverted (or pulled in)
An unusual pain that does not go away