Warning Signs of Breast Cancer

While there are no "classic" warning signs of breast cancer, nipple discharge, changes in breast tissue, or nipple tenderness may signal the presence of the disease. This lack of warning signs of breast cancer makes screening for the disease an important concern.

 

Warning Signs of Breast Cancer: An Overview

There are no classic warning signs of breast cancer. That is why breast cancer screening is so important. Screening prior to the appearance of breast cancer signs can help doctors find and treat cancer early. Also, breast cancer treatment is more likely to work well when cancer is found early.
 

Symptoms of Breast Cancer

When signs of breast cancer are present, they may include:
 
  • A change in how the breast or nipple feels
  • A lump or thickening in or near the breast or in the underarm area
  • Nipple tenderness
  • A change in how the breast or nipple looks
  • A change in the size or shape of the breast
  • A nipple turned inward into the breast
  • Nipple discharge (fluid).

 

Is Pain a Warning Sign of Breast Cancer?

Early breast cancer usually does not cause pain. Still, a woman should see her healthcare provider about breast pain or any possible breast cancer symptoms as early as possible so that problems can be diagnosed and treated. Keep in mind that most often problems in the breast are not actually due to cancer but to other, less serious, health problems.

 

Warning Signs for Breast Cancer: A Summary

There are no early warning signs for breast cancer; however, there are things that people can do to decrease their risk of developing the disease. By knowing breast cancer risk factors and breast cancer protective measures, a person can decrease his or her chance of developing breast cancer (see Breast Cancer Prevention).
 
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Written by/reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD