Breast Cancer Symptoms

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Breast cancer symptoms occur when breast cells develop abnormally and grow out of control forming a malignant (cancerous) tumour. It is possible for cancer cells to spread (metastasise) from the breast to other parts of the body via the lymphatic system and by direct entry into the blood vessels. Once there, they can form what is called"secondary" cancers. Prior to menopause the majority of new breast lumps found are benign (non-cancerous) and are considered breast cancer symptoms.

Breast Cancer Symptoms

However after menopause one in two new breast lumps found will be malignant.  Approximately 75% of all breast cancers will occur in women over the age of 50 years.

Men can develop breast cancer though it is rare. Signs and symptoms are similar and treatments are the same. Internationally, breast cancer symptoms rates have increased in most developed countries over the last 40 years.

Types of Breast Cancer Symptoms

There are different types of breast cancers including:

  1. Ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS): DCIS is when the breast cancer cells are completely contained within the milk ducts and have not spread into the surrounding breast tissue. It is the earliest stage of breast cancer and is almost always completely curable.
  2. Invasive ductal carcinoma: This is the most common type of breast cancer.  It starts in the milk ducts and spreads into the fatty tissue.
  3. Invasive lobular carcinoma: This cancer starts in the milk glands (lobules) and spreads into the fatty tissue.

Signs and Breast Cancer Symptoms

Breast cancer symptoms can often be misdiagnosed and just because you have breast cancer symptoms does not mean you have breast cancer. That is why when searching for symptoms and causes it is best to visit any of the medical sites, some of which are listed above. In this way you will avoid potential unnecessary panic. Also if you do display breast cancer symptoms you are in the presence of a professional with the support system to help you through.