Breast cancer symptoms: Don't take lump or swelling in the breast, discharge lightly 

Breast cancer symptoms: Changes in the size of one breast, such as swelling or shrinking, can be an early warning sign. This may happen without a lump, causing noticeable asymmetry between your breasts (Image: Canva)

The tumours in breast cancer develop when abnormal breast cells grow out of control. According to the World Health Organization, if untreated, these tumours can spread throughout the body and become life-threatening. Breast cancer often starts in the milk ducts or lobules. In its earliest stage (in situ), it isn’t life-threatening and can be detected early. However, cancer can invade nearby breast tissue, forming lumps or thickening. Invasive cancers may spread to lymph nodes or other organs (metastasis), which can be fatal.

Breast cancer is increasingly affecting younger people, says Dr Neil M. Iyengar, MD, Breast Medical Oncologist, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, United States. “Once largely associated with older women, this cancer has become the most common disease affecting people aged 15 to 39,” he says, adding, “Breast cancer can develop in various parts of the breast, from the ducts to lobules, and surrounding tissue, and though it predominantly affects women, it can also, albeit rarely, occur in men."

Here are some important signs of breast cancer to watch for, suggested by Dr Iyengar:

• Lump or thickness in or near the breast or underarm: A new lump or thickened area in the breast or underarm is one of the earliest signs of breast cancer. Even if it’s painless, it’s important to get it checked as it may signal an abnormal growth.

• Swelling or shrinking of the breast: (especially on one side): Changes in the size of one breast, such as swelling or shrinking, can be an early warning sign. This may happen without a lump, causing noticeable asymmetry between your breasts.

• Changes in breast skin: Redness, thickening, or flaking of the breast skin could indicate breast cancer. This may give the skin a dimpled or "orange peel" appearance, a sign of inflammatory breast cancer.

• Nipple discharge (not breast milk): Nipple discharge, especially clear or bloody, that occurs without squeezing is a concerning symptom. It may point to an infection, hormonal changes, or cancer.

• Nipple changes: Changes in the nipple, such as inversion, redness, or scaling, may signal cancer affecting the ducts. These changes should be evaluated by a doctor.

Breast cancer treatment: 

Treatment for breast cancer depends on the type and how far it has spread. Doctors often combine surgery, radiation, and medications to reduce the risk of recurrence.

• Surgery: Removes the tumour (lumpectomy) or the entire breast (mastectomy). Lymph nodes may also be removed.
• Radiation therapy: Targets leftover cancer cells to reduce the risk of recurrence.
• Medications: Includes hormonal therapies, chemotherapy, or targeted therapies based on the cancer's biology.