Breast Cancer Information

Warning signs of breast cancer

If you notice any of the warning signs of breast cancer listed below, see your health care provider.

• Lump, hard knot or thickening inside the breast or underarm area
• Swelling, warmth, redness or darkening of the breast
• Change in the size or shape of the breast
• Dimpling or puckering of the skin
• Itchy, scaly sore or rash on the nipple
• Pulling in of your nipple or other parts of the breast
• Nipple discharge that starts suddenly
• New pain in one spot that doesn’t go away

Adapted from National Cancer Institute [47-48], American Cancer Society [49] and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention [50].

Link for LARGE PRINT Breast Self-Exam Brochure:
http://ww5.komen.org/uploadedFiles/Content_Binaries/LRGPrintBSA-Eng.pdf

Susan G. Komen for the Cure® recommends that you :

1. Know your risk Talk to your family to learn about your family health history Talk to your health care provider about your personal risk of breast cancer 2. Get screened Ask your health care provider which screening tests are right for you if you are at higher risk Have a mammogram every year starting at age 40 if you are at average risk Have a clinical breast exam at least every 3 years starting at age 20, and every year starting at age 40 3. Know what is normal for you and see your health care provider if you notice any of these breast changes: Lump, hard knot or thickening inside the breast or underarm area Swelling, warmth, redness or darkening of the breast Change in the size or shape of the breast Dimpling or puckering of the skin Itchy, scaly sore or rash on the nipple Pulling in of your nipple or other parts of the breast Nipple discharge that starts suddenly New pain in one spot that doesn't go away 4. Make healthy lifestyle choices Maintain a healthy weight Add exercise into your routine Limit alcohol intake Limit postmenopausal hormone use Breastfeed, if you can