Here’s what you should know about breast cancer signs, symptoms and screening

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The best way to catch breast cancer early is to receive an annual mammogram once you turn 40. Some women will receive mammograms before that age due to their risk of developing breast cancer, especially if they have a first-degree relative diagnosed with breast cancer.

However, there are other risk factors you should know about when it comes to breast cancer awareness. Some of those are:

  • A personal history of benign, also known as non-cancerous, breast disease.
  • Inherited changes in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 gene or other genes that increase the risk of breast cancer.
  • Dense breast tissue.
  • Taking hormones such as estrogen combined with progestin for symptoms of menopause.
  • Drinking alcohol.
  • Obesity.
  • Older age.

In addition to knowing your health history and the risk factors associated with breast cancer, paying attention to any possible changes with your breasts in between receiving your annual screening is best. Here are the signs you should look for:

  • A lump or thickening in or near the breast or underarm area.
  • A change in the size or shape of the breast.
  • A dimple or puckering in the skin of the breast.
  • A nipple turned inward into the breast.
  • Fluid, other than breast milk, from the nipple, especially if it's bloody.
  • Scaly, red, or swollen skin on the breast, nipple, or areola (the dark area of skin around the nipple).
  • Dimples in the breast that look like the skin of an orange.

Noticing one of the signs above does not always mean cancer, but it’s best to see a doctor as soon as possible or speak with a breast screening specialist at Karmanos Cancer Institute or a McLaren Health Care location near you if you notice a change.

Karmanos recommends an annual screening mammogram, a special type of X-ray that is used to detect breast abnormalities, for all women of average risk beginning at age 40. Women with one or more risk factor should talk to their family doctor or an expert at Karmanos or McLaren about when to begin getting annual mammograms.

Referrals are not needed to schedule an annual mammogram at Karmanos or McLaren.

To learn more about mammography and to find a location near you, click here.