Breast cancer is the most common cancer to be diagnosed in women, with 45,500 cases diagnosed every year in the UK. This form of cancer is extremely rare in women within their teens and early twenties, but as a woman’s age rises so does the risk of developing breast cancer. One in nine women are affected at some point of their life.

When detected early breast cancer can usually be cured, which is why screening and personal checks are vital. Harley Streey at Queen's can offer guidance on screening options and what to do if you are concerned about screening results.

What to look out for

Symptoms include but are not limited to:

• Lump in breast: A lump within the breast (not generally painful) is one of the most common signs of breast cancer. Lumps within the breast do not necessarily denote cancer however, due to the nature of this disease it is important to rule cancer out as a cause as soon as possible. In the case of cancerous lumps the sooner treatment is started the higher rate of success. Therefore it really is imperative to see your doctor as soon as possible if you notice a lump within your breast.
• Changes in the size or shape of breast.
• Changes in breast tissue - which can become thicker.
• Dimpling of breast skin.
• A lump under the armpit.
• Changes to the nipple including
  • a rash which can be compared to eczema
  • a lump or thickening of tissue behind the nipple area
  • a discharge from the nipple which can be bloodstained
  • in some cases the nipple may turn-in becoming what is known as inverted

Most changes in women’s breast are normal changes, which can develop with age or around your menstrual cycle. However due to the nature and high occurrence of breast cancer in women it is vital you speak to your doctor straight away if you have any concerns or notice changes or lump(s) within your breast(s).