Breast Cancer Awareness Month 2021, taking place in October, aims to raise awareness of the disease and encourage women to check their bodies.
Each year around 55,000 women and 370 men are diagnosed with breast cancer, with 80% of cases occurring among women aged 50 and over, according to Breast Cancer Now.
While the disease is less common among younger age groups, spotting the signs can help to boost early detection meaning treatments are more effective. As well as promoting awareness of breast cancer, the campaign also aims to raise funds to help support cancer charities and people are encouraged to get involved in various fundraising initiatives throughout the month.
Listed are some of the most common symptoms of breast cancer to look out for. If you notice any possible cancer signs, you should see your GP to get checked.
1. A new lump
A common sign of breast cancer can be a new lump, or area of thickened tissue, in either breast that was not there before.
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2. Breast lumps can be benign
While breast lumps are often the first symptom of breast cancer for many women, lumps can be benign in some cases. These are usually areas of normal lumpiness just before a period, cysts, or fibroadenoma. However, it is always important to get a lump checked by your GP to find out if it is cancerous.
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3. Change in size or shape
You may notice a change in the size or shape of one, or both, or your breasts.
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4. Discharge
Another common sign can be discharge of fluid leaking from your nipples when you are not pregnant or breast feeding.
Photo: CoppaFeel!