Written By: Pavitra Sampath | Updated : February 24, 2015 1:35 AM IST
A staggering 25 to 35 % of women suffer from breast cancer. While rural areas are not far behind with numbers steadily rising this statistic is especially true for those living in cities. In the year 2008, almost 1,15,000 new cases of breast cancer were reported in India, and about 53,000 deaths due to breast cancer were recorded.
If you though these were just statistics and cancer would never happen to you, think again. Things like an unhealthy lifestyle, stress, imbalanced eating habits, irregular sleeping hours, early onset of menarche (periods), late menopause and late pregnancies (beyond your 30s) make you more prone to suffering from this cancer. The factors sound familiar don't they? Well, according to Dr Sumeet Shah, leading cancer surgeon who specializes in treating breast cancer, says breast cancer is best treated at an earlier stage, therefore making detection, diagnosis and prevention that much more important. So, to help you out, here are the 6 symptoms of breast cancer you should know about:
Symptom #1: Lumps
If you notice a hard lump or knot, that is usually painless in your breast (either one or both), then it's time to get a mammography done. Finding a lump does take a little bit of effort, and doing regular breast self exams are imperative to catch this symptom early.
Symptom #2: Slight hardening
Occasionally, you might not be able to discern a clear cut lump cannot, but a 'lumpish' feel is there. And this feel is different as compared to the same area of the opposite breast. You will feel a sort of hardening in one area of your breast(s) which must be investigated early. Usually this symptom is ignored as a minor change in the composition of your breast but, considering it could be an early indicator of breast cancer, get yourself tested as soon as you can.
Symptom #3: Nipple discharge
Under normal circumstances there should be no discharge from your nipples '(unless you are pregnant or have just had a baby), but if you see bloody or blood stained fluid being discharged from your nipples, it a sign that you need to visit your doctor immediately.
Symptom # 4: Change in the shape of your nipples
If you have noticed a recent 'in drawing' or 'inward pull' on your nipple or even a change in direction, it is a sign that there is something wrong. Normal nipples should face outwards and look healthy.
Symptom # 5: Change in the texture of the skin over your breasts
Usually the skin around your breast is soft and supple, but if you notice any change in the texture of the skin around your breasts it is a definite warning sign. According to Dr Sumeet Shah, if the skin around your breasts feels thick, hard and like an 'orange' peel, you need to get the reason for this thickening investigated immediately.
Symptom # 6: Knots in your arm pits
We all have lymph nodes in our armpits and these normally get inflamed when infected. But if you notice small 'knots' or nodes in your armpits that are slightly hard or painful to touch, it might be a sign of breast cancer.
Finally, the best way to detect the presence of breast cancer is to get regular breast examinations. Doing timely self examinations and periodic medical tests to check for any changes in your breasts is the best way to catch the condition early and increase your chances of a quick and effective recovery.
Read more about causes, symptoms, diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer.
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