Warning Signs of Breast Cancer

October is Breast Cancer Awareness month.

In 2016, it is estimated among women there will be 246,660 new cases of invasive breast cancer. Since mammogram screenings are done frequently, many cases are caught early. However, sometimes a mammogram can’t detect breast cancer early enough. There are ways you can check for breast cancer on your own.

While they are not always the same for all women, these signs can let you know if you should see a physician:

• Lump, hard knot or thickening inside the breast or underarm area
• Swelling, warmth, redness or darkening of the breastChange in the size or shape of the breast
• Dimpling or puckering of the skin
• Itchy, scaly sore or rash on the nipple
• Pulling in of your nipple or other parts of the breast
• Nipple discharge that starts suddenly
• New pain in one spot that does not go away

In many cases, these are not necessarily signs of breast cancer. If you discover both lumps and discharge, you should see your healthcare provider immediately. Help catch breast cancer early and educate other women in your life.