Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women worldwide, affecting around 2.1 million women annually. Although breast cancer can affect men too, it’s far less common, accounting for less than 1% of all breast cancers.

The key to treating breast cancer successfully is catching it early. That’s why it’s important to recognize the signs and symptoms of breast cancer so that you can seek medical attention if you notice any changes. Here are the top 10 breast cancer symptoms to be aware of:.

1. A Lump or Mass in the Breast

Lumps and masses are the most common signs of breast cancer. You might feel a lump or mass in your breast or under your armpit, which doesn’t go away after your menstrual cycle.

The lump or mass might feel hard, with uneven edges, and won’t hurt if you touch it.

2. Changes in Breast Shape or Size

Breast shape and size can change throughout the course of our lives due to natural aging or fluctuations in weight. However, if your breast changes shape or size suddenly without any obvious cause, it might be a sign of breast cancer.

For example, the breast might appear swollen or look different than it did before, or one breast might be noticeably larger than the other.

3. Nipple Changes

Changes to the nipple are another common sign of breast cancer. You might notice that your nipple suddenly becomes inverted (i.e., pulls inward instead of projecting outward), or there is a discharge that’s not milk, such as blood.

You might also notice that the skin around your nipple becomes scaly, itchy, or red.

4. Breast Pain

Breast pain is not a sign of breast cancer if it’s related to your menstrual cycle. However, if you experience pain in your breast that’s not related to your menstrual cycle and doesn’t go away, it might be a sign of breast cancer.

The pain might feel dull or sharp, and might affect one or both breasts.

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5. Skin Changes

Changes to the skin on your breast can be a sign of breast cancer. You might notice that your skin becomes dimpled, resembling the texture of an orange peel.

This is called edema, and it happens when the breast cancer blocks lymphatic vessels, causing fluid to build up in the breast. You might also notice that your skin becomes thickened or reddened, or there’s a rash that doesn’t clear up.

6. Swelling

Swelling in the breast or underarm can be a sign of breast cancer. The swelling might be in one breast only and may not resolve after a period of time.

7. Lumps or Masses under the Arm

If you notice lumps or masses under the arm, it’s important to get them checked out. In some cases, breast cancer can spread to the lymph nodes under the arm, causing them to enlarge.

You might notice swelling and a lump under the area of the arm closest to the breast affected by cancer.

8. Numbness or Tingling

If you experience numbness or tingling in your breast, it might be a sign of breast cancer. This happens when the breast cancer grows and puts pressure on nerves in the breast, leading to a lack of sensation or a tingling sensation.

9. Unexplained Weight Loss

Unexplained weight loss can be due to a variety of health conditions, including breast cancer. This happens when breast cancer cells consume all the energy in your body and make you lose weight.

If you notice that you’re losing weight without trying, it’s important to talk to your doctor.

10. Fatigue

Feeling tired and drained all the time can be a sign of breast cancer. Although it’s not a specific symptom of breast cancer, fatigue can be a sign that your body is fighting something, such as cancer.

If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s important to make an appointment to see your doctor as soon as possible. Remember, the earlier breast cancer is diagnosed, the easier it is to treat and the better the outcome is for the patient.