October 23, 2023 By Mass General Brigham at the Hingham Shipyard
According to the CDC, other than skin cancer, breast cancer is the most common cancer among women. October is Breast Cancer Awareness month and a good opportunity to be reminded of the common symptoms. If you experience any of these symptoms, consult your health care provider.
- New lump in the breast or underarm (armpit).
- Thickening or swelling of part of the breast.
- Irritation or dimpling of breast skin.
- Redness or flaky skin in the nipple area or the breast.
- Pulling in of the nipple or pain in the nipple area.
- Nipple discharge other than breast milk, including blood.
- Any change in the size or the shape of the breast.
- Pain in any area of the breast.
*Keep in mind that these symptoms can happen with other conditions that are not cancer.
Your provider may recommend screening for breast cancer, and while screening does not prevent breast cancer, it can find cancer earlier which makes it easier to treat. Typical screening methods include mammogram (an X-ray of the breast), MRI (uses magnets and radio waves), clinical exam (examination by a doctor or a nurse), self-exam (patient is familiar with the look and feel of own breast and notices lumps or changes.)
Thank you to Mass General Brigham at the Hingham Shipyard for supporting local journalism through this sponsored post.