Checking for lumps is crucial — but doctors stress that there are other symptoms you should never ignore. Here’s what to look out for, plus how to check yourself.
Breast cancer is the most common cancer in the UK, with one in seven women likely to be diagnosed during their lifetime. Around 56,000 new cases are reported every year —that’s more than 150 people each day.
The outlook, however, is brighter than ever. Survival rates are high and continuing to rise, thanks to better awareness and earlier detection.
While lumps are the best-known symptom, medical experts warn they’re not the only one and being aware of the more subtle signs can make all the difference.
“Awareness of these less common symptoms is crucial, because catching breast cancer early can massively impact treatment and outcomes,” says Dr Manav Bawa, GP and aesthetic doctor at Time Clinic.
If you’re unsure what to look out for, L360 spoke to medical experts to put together a list of the subtle signs and indications that could lead to early detection.
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Unusual signs of breast cancer
Skin texture changes
“Subtle changes such as skin dimpling can be early warning signs,” says Dr Manav.
According to Cancer Research UK, the skin might look like orange peel or the texture might feel different.
The website adds: “Some of these symptoms may look different or be harder to see depending on your skin tone. For example, what appears red on white skin may look darker or more of a reddish-brown colour on brown or Black skin.”
Nipple changes
Nipples that suddenly invert, change direction, or develop thickened or scaly skin are all signs to flag. “Nipple drainage that isn’t explainable — particularly clear or bloody drainage that isn’t associated with breastfeeding — should be checked by a professional immediately,” says Candice Van Eeden, a health expert at Kuon Healthcare.
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Persistent redness or rash
A rash, redness or warmth around the breast or nipple can sometimes be mistaken for eczema or infection, but doctors warn that if it doesn’t clear up, it may be something more serious.
Swelling in the armpit or collarbone
“Uncharacteristic lumps in strange places, like underneath the arm or up the tail of the breast, shouldn’t be ignored,” explains Candice.
Swelling in these areas may indicate lymph node involvement.
Shifts in size or shape
Breast cancer can cause one breast to look different from the other — even without a detectable lump. “Breast cancer might cause your breast to look bigger or have a different shape than usual, it might feel different,” notes Cancer Research UK.
Pain or tenderness that persists
“While breast pain alone is rarely cancer, persistent, unexplained pain should be checked,” says Dr Manav. If tenderness doesn’t vary with your menstrual cycle, get it investigated.
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How to check your breasts for signs of cancer
Breast self-examination doesn’t replace mammograms or clinical checks, but it’s one of the simplest ways to stay aware of changes in your body.
However, only a third of women regularly check their breasts, according to a recent study commissioned by The Estée Lauder Companies’ Breast Cancer Campaign.
- Look: stand in front of a mirror with your arms at your sides, then raised above your head. Check for changes in shape, size, contour or skin texture.
- Feel: use the pads of your fingers to move around your entire breast in a circular motion, from the outside-in, toward the nipple. Repeat on both sides.
Ensure you check the underarm and collarbone area, feeling for any lumps or swelling.
@laramil1er This is your reminder to check the girls🍒 It’s breast cancer awareness month and your monthly reminder to check your breasts. Each year about 55,000 women and 390 men are diagnosed with breast cancer in the UK so it’s important you know how to check your breasts for any signs 🫶🏼 #breastcancer #breastcancerawareness
The study also found that two thirds of women who have been concerned about possible symptoms haven’t sought advice from a healthcare professional. If you spot any changes like pain, tenderness or thickening, no matter how small, book an appointment with your GP.
Candice says: “A healthcare professional should examine even the slightest or non-characteristic changes over time. Timely diagnosis enhances the outcomes.”
By knowing the signs and checking in with your body regularly, you’re giving yourself the strongest chance at protecting your health.
For more information, visit breastcancernow.org
Feature image: Canva
