October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a useful reminder to make time for an appointment you may have been putting off.

Finding a breast change can feel frightening. Most breast lumps are not cancer, but having a new lump examined is the best way to find out what is causing it. When breast cancer is detected and treated early, treatment is more likely to succeed. 

Changes worth getting checked

Be familiar with how your breasts usually look and feel. Contact a healthcare professional if you notice:

• A new lump or thickened area, even without pain.
• An unusual change in breast size or shape.
• Dimpling, puckering or redness of the skin.
• A change in your nipple or the surrounding skin.
• Unusual nipple discharge, particularly blood.

Most women diagnosed with breast cancer have no known family history of it. Men can develop breast cancer too, so breast changes should also be checked in men.

Your next step can be a simple appointment

Start with your doctor or local clinic. Explain the change when booking rather than waiting for your next routine screening.

A little preparation can make the visit easier:

• Write down what you noticed and when it started.
• Mention any family history of breast cancer.
• Ask what happens next: do you need tests or a referral?
• Check how you will receive results and whom to contact if they do not arrive.

You do not need to decide for yourself whether a symptom is serious.

CANSA advises having concerning symptoms assessed promptly by a health professional. 

Feeling well? Ask about screening

A mammogram is a breast X-ray that can help detect cancer before symptoms appear.

CANSA’s screening guidance recommends:

• From age 40: an annual mammogram.
• From age 55: a mammogram every two years, or continued annual screening if preferred.
• For people at higher risk: discuss an individual screening plan with a healthcare professional.

Knowing your breasts and having a clinical examination are useful, but they do not replace mammograms. A new symptom needs assessment regardless of your age or screening schedule.

Reliable information and support

CANSA offers clinical breast examinations at participating Care Centres and can help with referrals. It does not perform mammograms; confirm services, appointments and costs before visiting.

• CANSA screening services and booking contacts.
• Contact CANSA or call 0800 22 6622, toll-free, for information and support.
• WHO’s breast cancer information explains symptoms, risk factors and treatment.

The Bottom Line

You do not have to face a worrying change alone. Ask someone you trust to accompany you if that would help, and leave your appointment knowing the next step. Getting answers is a worthwhile act of self-care.