September 30, 2026 07:40 AM IST

UNDERSTANDING BREAST CANCER: SYMPTOMS, RISK FACTORS, AND PREVENTION

Hearing the words “breast cancer” can be frightening. But awareness can make a real difference. Knowing what changes to look for, understanding your risk, and getting the right medical advice when something feels unusual can help with early detection.

Breast cancer develops when abnormal cells in the breast grow uncontrollably and form a tumour. It can occur at different ages and can affect people differently. While most breast cancers occur in women, men can also develop the disease.

The encouraging part is that breast cancer is increasingly treatable, particularly when it is detected before it has spread. This makes breast health and timely medical evaluation important.

What are the early signs of breast cancer?

One of the most commonly recognised breast cancer symptoms is a new lump or thickened area in the breast or under the arm. However, a lump is not the only change that deserves attention.

Some possible signs include:

• A new lump or firm area in the breast or under the arm
• A change in the size or shape of the breast
• Dimpling, puckering or changes in the texture of the breast skin
• Redness, swelling or unusual changes in the skin
• Changes in the appearance or direction of the nipple
• Nipple discharge that is not breast milk, particularly if it is bloody
• Persistent changes around the nipple or areola
• Swelling of part or all of the breast, sometimes without a noticeable lump

It is worth remembering that most breast changes are not cancer. Breast cysts, hormonal changes and other benign conditions can also cause lumps or discomfort. Still, any new or unusual change should be assessed by a doctor rather than ignored.

Breast cancer does not usually cause pain in its early stages, so waiting for pain before seeking medical advice is not a good approach.

What causes breast cancer?

There isn't one simple answer to the question, “What causes breast cancer?”

Cancer develops because of changes in the cells that affect how they grow and divide. Several factors can increase the likelihood of these changes occurring.

Some breast cancer risk factors cannot be changed, while others are linked to lifestyle or certain exposures.

Age

The risk of breast cancer generally increases with age. This is one of the most important risk factors for the disease.

Family history and genetics

Having a close family member with breast cancer can increase your risk, particularly when several relatives have had the disease or when breast cancer occurs at a younger age.

Certain inherited genetic changes, including changes in the BRCA1, BRCA2 and PALB2 genes, can also substantially increase breast cancer risk.

However, having no family history does not mean you cannot develop breast cancer. Many women diagnosed with breast cancer do not have a known family history of the disease.

Lifestyle factors

Some lifestyle factors are also associated with breast cancer risk. These include drinking alcohol, being physically inactive and having excess body weight, particularly after menopause.

This does not mean that someone who has one of these factors will necessarily develop cancer. Risk is influenced by a combination of factors, many of which cannot be controlled.

Reproductive and hormonal factors

Certain reproductive factors can affect breast cancer risk, including the age at which menstruation begins, age at first full-term pregnancy and age at menopause.

Some forms of hormone therapy used after menopause may also increase breast cancer risk, depending on the type and duration of treatment.

Can breast cancer be prevented?

There is no guaranteed way to prevent breast cancer. Some women who have no known risk factors will still develop the disease.

However, certain lifestyle choices can help reduce the risk.

Stay physically active

Regular physical activity is associated with a lower risk of breast cancer. You don't necessarily need an elaborate workout routine. Walking, cycling, swimming, strength exercises or other activities that you can maintain regularly can all contribute to a healthier lifestyle.

Maintain a healthy weight

Maintaining a healthy weight, particularly after menopause, may help lower breast cancer risk. A balanced diet and regular physical activity can support healthy weight management and overall health.

Limit alcohol

Alcohol consumption is linked to an increased risk of breast cancer. Reducing alcohol intake, or avoiding it, can therefore be part of a breast cancer risk-reduction strategy.

Know your family history

Take some time to understand your family's health history. If your mother, sister, daughter or several other close relatives have had breast or certain other cancers, discuss this with your doctor.

For people with a strong family history or certain inherited genetic changes, doctors may recommend a personalised assessment and additional measures to manage risk.

Why is early detection important?

One of the biggest reasons behind breast cancer awareness is early detection.

Breast cancer can sometimes be found before it causes noticeable symptoms through screening. Mammography is one of the established screening methods used to detect breast abnormalities, including cancers that may not yet be felt as a lump.

Screening recommendations are not identical for everyone. Age, personal health history, family history, breast density and individual risk can all influence when and how screening should be performed.

It is therefore better to discuss the appropriate breast cancer screening schedule with a healthcare professional rather than assuming that one screening interval applies to every woman.

At the same time, screening does not replace paying attention to changes in your breasts. If you notice a new lump or other unusual change, speak with a doctor even if you recently had a normal screening test.

What happens if you notice a breast change?

Finding a lump can naturally cause anxiety. Try not to assume the worst.

Your doctor may begin with a physical examination and ask about your symptoms and medical and family history. Depending on the findings, they may recommend imaging such as a mammogram or ultrasound. Further testing, including a biopsy, may be recommended when necessary to determine whether an abnormal area is cancerous.

The important thing is not to ignore a change simply because it isn't painful.

Early medical evaluation can help identify benign conditions as well as breast cancers at a stage when treatment may be more effective.

Be aware, be proactive

Breast cancer is a serious disease, but awareness should not be a source of fear. It should be a reason to pay attention to your health.

Know what is normal for your breasts. Be aware of changes such as a new lump, skin changes, nipple abnormalities or unusual discharge. Understand your personal breast cancer risk factors, make healthy lifestyle choices and discuss appropriate screening with your doctor.

Most importantly, don't wait for a symptom to become painful or severe before seeking help.

Early detection, timely diagnosis and appropriate treatment can make a meaningful difference in breast cancer outcomes. If you notice a persistent or unusual breast change, consult a qualified healthcare professional for an appropriate evaluation.