Doctor shares very early signs of breast cancer that women should not ignore

Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers affecting women, in India and across the world. While awareness has improved, many women still tend to ignore early changes in the breast.

Some assume the symptoms are linked to periods, ageing, stress, breastfeeding, or a minor infection. In many cases, these changes may not be cancer. If a symptom is new, unusual, or won’t go away, having it examined is an important step to take.The good news is that if breast cancer is found early on, it is often treated more effectively than at later stages. An early diagnosis can lead to easier treatment, better recovery, and better quality of life.

For this reason, women need to know what to look for and how to seek out help from the physician. Dr. Shona Nag, Director - Oncology , Sahyadri Super Specialty, Hadapsar, Pune shares some early signs that women should not ignore.

New lumps in the breast are one of the most common signs that something may be wrong. A lump can be hard, firm, or different from surrounding tissue. While not all lumps are dangerous, every new lump should get a medical evaluation.

Changes in Breast size and shape should not be ignored. If one breast suddenly looks swollen, larger, or different from the other without any clear reason, it is better to consult a doctor.Breast pain is another symptom women often dismiss. Pain before periods is common, but pain that stays in one specific area, or pain that is not linked to the menstrual cycle, should be assessed.

Similarly, any change in the nipple, such as the nipple turning inward, becoming flattened, or looking different from before, should be examined by a specialist.Nipple discharge is another important sign. Discharge that is bloody, clear, or happens without pressing the nipple needs prompt attention. Skin changes over the breast are equally important. Small dents in the skin, skin tightening, thickening, or skin that looks like the peel of an orange can sometimes indicate changes beneath the surface.Women should monitor for the appearance of redness, swelling or rash on the breast/nipple area; if these changes do not improve with normal treatments, they should be investigated as they may indicate possible inflammatory breast cancer which may spread quickly and can occur without a lump.Additionally, the underarm area also matters because there is a close relationship between breast tissue and lymph nodes in the armpit. Any swelling, tenderness, or lump in the armpit should not go ignored. Persistent itching around the breast/nipple area should also be checked out, especially if accompanied by other changes. Any sore, wound, or ulcer on the breast or nipple that does not heal should be checked without delay.It is also important to remember that early breast cancer may cause no symptoms at all. Routine screening (including mammograms if suggested) can identify possible alterations prior to physical detection of change. Women should also become familiar with how their breasts normally look and feel, so they can identify changes early.Breast cancer awareness should not create fear. It should create confidence. Most breast changes are not cancerous, but every persistent or unusual change deserves a medical opinion. The message is simple: know your body, trust your instincts, and do not postpone care. Early detection saves lives.