Other Breast Signs Cancer to Look how

Other possible signs of breast cancer that may be present with or without a palatable lump include:

• A change in the shape or size of one breast
• Dimpled or thickened skin
• Swelling in your armpit
• Clear, bloody or green pus like discharge from the nipple
• A change in the shape or appearance of your nipple
• A rash on or around the nipple

The above symptom may or may not be caused by cancer, but they do warrant a visit to the doctor.

Breast Cancer Statistics

 

Breast cancer is one of the leading causes of death in women. In 2006, "191,410 women were diagnosed with breast cancer" and "40,820 women died from breast cancer", says the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Breast cancer also occurs in men, but at a much lower rate. MedlinePlus estimates that "women are 100 times more likely to get breast cancer than men." The risks of breast cancer increases with age and is highest in women who are 50 years old or older. Other risks that increase the chances of breast cancer are:

• A family history of breast cancer
• Carrying genetic defects in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes
• Beginning menstruation before the age of 12 years old
• Reaching menopause after the age of 55 years old
• Hormone replacement therapy
• Diethylstilbestrol (DES)
• Radiation therapy to the chest area
• Obesity
• Alcohol consumption: More than one or two glasses a day
• Never having children

The two most common types of breast cancer are ductal carcinoma and lobular carcinoma. Ductal carcinomas--cancer in the ducts that carry milk--account for approximately 86 percent of breast cancers, lobular carcinomas--cancer in the areas that makes milk--account for about 12 percent of breast cancers and malignant tumors found in other areas of the breasts account for approximately 2 percent of breast cancers, estimates the University of Cincinnati.

Disclaimer

This article is for educational purposes only and is not meant to act as or replace medical advice. Regularly visit your doctor for checkups, breast exams and mammograms. Some breast cancer lumps are easily missed during self-breast exams and some cannot be felt by palpitation.