The most common way that a potential problem is detected is when physical changes aren’t noticed in the breasts. The key is for the woman to know what ‘normal’ is - then changes can be noticed. All women should practise breast awareness. This involves getting to know what's normal for your breasts in terms of look and texture, so you can spot any changes and get them checked as soon as possible.
Examples of the kind of things to look out for include:
• Lumps or thickening of the tissue
• Any flaking skin or discharge from the nipple.
• 'Tethering' of the skin, as if it's being pulled from the inside
• Any unusual sensation or discomfort.
• A change in outline, shape or size of the breast.
Remember, although most lumps are harmless and will turn out not to be cancerous, you should still get them checked by a doctor as soon as possible, especially if you’re young.
Many lumps will be picked up with mammograms - x-rays of the breast taken every few years as part of the NHS National Breast Screening Programme. The NHS National Breast Screening Programme provides free screening for breast cancer for all women over the age of 50. If you're between 50 and 70 you should be routinely invited for a mammogram every three years. Women over 70 are encouraged to make their own appointment. Regular breast screening may also highlight changes in the breast, enabling the condition to be diagnosed before any symptoms occur through.
You may want to have a look at Macmillan's OPERA tool. This online risk assessment program has been designed to give information about your hereditary risk based on the your personal and family history of breast and ovarian cancer.
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