The World Cancer Research Fund International reports that breast cancer is the second most common cancer in the world and the number one cancer among women. Globally, nearly three million new cases of breast cancer in women are diagnosed yearly.

While breast cancer poses a significant threat to women’s health, research and advancements have made the disease more treatable than ever. Women also can play a part in ensuring better outcomes related to breast cancer by educating themselves about the disease, including its warning signs.

The MD Anderson Cancer Center (MDACC) notes that most changes to the breast are due to hormonal cycles or conditions that are not related to breast cancer. So, women should not jump to any conclusions when spotting such changes. However, it is important that women visit their physicians if they notice any of the following signs and symptoms of breast cancer.

  • Lump: A lump in the breast or armpit is the most common symptom of breast cancer. The American Cancer Society (ACS) points out that most breast lumps are not cancerous. However, a painless lump, or hard mass with irregular edges is more likely to be cancer, though cancerous lumps also can be soft, round, tender, or even painful. The lack of uniformity regarding cancerous lumps is one reason why women should be extra cautious and immediately report any abnormalities in the shape and feel of their breasts to their physicians.
  • Swelling: Some women with breast cancer will experience swelling of all or part of a breast even if they do not feel a lump.
  • Dimpling: Women with breast cancer may notice dimpling or puckering on the breast. According to the ACS, the dimpling can sometimes make the breast look like an orange peel.
  • Nipple retraction: The National Cancer Institute notes that nipple retraction occurs when a nipple turns inward into the breast or lies flat against the breast. Though nipple retraction can be a sign of breast cancer, the NCI notes that’s not necessarily the case for all women. Some women experience nipple retraction due to aging, breastfeeding, injury, infection, surgery, or certain conditions of the breast.
  • Changes to the skin around the breast: The ACS notes some women with breast cancer experience redness on the skin around the breast or on the nipple. Additional changes may include dry, flaking, or thickened skin around the breast and nipple.
  • Discharge from the nipple: It is normal to experience discharge from the nipple while pregnant and during breastfeeding. However, fluid coming out the nipple, in a woman who is not pregnant or breastfeeding, could be a symptom of breast cancer.
  • Additional symptoms: Scaliness on the nipple that sometimes extends to the areola is another warning sign of breast cancer. The ACS also reports that swollen lymph nodes under the arm or near the collar bone can indicate that breast cancer has spread even before the original tumor in the breast has been felt.

Breast cancer is a formidable, yet treatable disease. Women who recognize any signs and symptoms associated with breast cancer are urged to contact their physicians immediately.