Breast cancer symptoms

The first symptom of breast cancer most women notice is a lump or an area of thickened tissue in their breast. Most lumps (90%) are not cancerous, but it is always best to have them checked by your doctor.

See your doctor if you notice any of the following:

• a lump or area of thickened tissue in either breast
• a change in the size or shape of one or both breasts
• discharge from either of your nipples (which may be streaked with blood)
• a lump or swelling in either of your armpits
• dimpling on the skin of your breasts
• a rash on or around your nipple
• a change in the appearance of your nipple, such as becoming sunken into your breast
• pain in either of your breasts or armpits not related to your period