Signs and Symptoms of Breast Cancer

Everyone’s body is different and displays symptoms of breast cancer differently.   In some cases there are no symptoms at all and others there may be symptoms but the issue turns out to be something non-cancerous.   Typically, however, symptoms include lumps, swelling, size changes in your breasts, skin changes or even soreness in different areas around the breast.   You may also notice that your nipple may be inverted, red, swollen, scaly and exhibiting nipple discharge.

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, please contact us.

Some of the contributing factors of breast cancer include:
-    Gender – 190,000 new cases of breast cancer per year
-    Age – ~66% of invasive breast cancers are found in women age 55 and older
-    Family History – first degree relationships with cancer can double your risk
-    Genetics – 5-10% of breast cancers may be caused by abnormal genes from parent to child
-    Personal History – those already diagnosed are 3-4 times more likely to get it elsewhere
-    Other Benign Breast Changes
-    Race/Ethnicity – Anglo women appear to be slightly more likely to develop breast cancer than African American, Hispanic or Asian women.   But African American women seem to be more susceptible to aggressive, advanced stage cancer at a younger age.
-    Overweight – can increase the risk of breast cancer returning, especially over age of 55
-    Pregnancy History – women over age 30 without full term pregnancy have higher risk
-    Other factors – Breastfeeding, Menstrual History, Using HRT, Alcohol Use, Breast Density, Lack of Exercise, Smoking

If you or someone you know is showing signs or symptoms or wants to learn more about some of these contributing factors, please contact us immediately.    Our expert breast cancer physicians can help you identify, understand and treat these risks and complications.

Learn more about screening and treatment options here.