Prevention
The experts aren’t 100% on what causes Breast Cancer, but, as with other Cancers, there are some risk elements which make it more likely.
These include:
- Age (Breast Cancer is most common in men 60+)
- Obesity
- Family history of Breast Cancer (male or female)
- Liver damage (such as liver Cirrhosis)
- Conditions that can damage the testicles (such as undescended testicles or Mumps as an adult)
Symptoms
The most common sign is a hard lump on the chest, usually found underneath the nipple and areola (that’s the circular area coloured differently to your chest). If your nipples have changed in shape, colour or if there’s any discharge then you should call your GP.
Other symptoms can include:
- A nipple turning inwards
- A rash on the nipple
- Changes to the size or shape of the breast
- Bleeding or discharge from the nipple
- An ulcer on the breast skin
- A lump in the armpit
Remember, you can get similar symptoms from harmless cysts, but it’s always best left to your GP to decide the best fix. When you visit your doctor, they’ll feel your chest area to see if the lump could be a cyst.
Your doctor may organise an ultrasound or an X-ray. These don’t hurt and won’t need you to stay overnight. Another potential test is a biopsy, which takes a sample of the lump for testing.
MOT
It’s always worth giving yourself a regular once over to check for any unusual lumps or bumps.
Here’s a quick guide to checking yourself (or, you and your partner could always have a bit of fun and check each other instead)…
- Check one breast at a time
- Use your right hand to check your left breast, and then with your left hand check your right breast
- Place your fingers flat against the breast and press firmly in small, clockwise circles
- Start at the top edge of your breast and spiral in towards the nipple
- Feel for any hard lumps or bumps
- Give both of your nipples a gentle squeeze to look for any discharge
If you notice anything unusual, then don’t hang about – get it checked out by a doctor.
