Some mornings feel ordinary until they are not. A brief pause in front of the mirror. A touch that lingers a second longer than usual. That quiet uncertainty can quickly grow into concern.
Breast cancer continues to affect millions of women each year. According to global data cited by The Times of India, 2.3 million new cases and 670,000 deaths were recorded worldwide in 2022.
As life expectancy rises, health experts warn that awareness and early detection are becoming more important than ever.
Knowing your normal
Breasts naturally change over time. Hormones, age and menstrual cycles all influence how they look and feel. Many lumps are harmless cysts or benign tissue growth.
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What truly matters is noticing what is different for you. A lump that feels unfamiliar or does not disappear after your cycle ends should not be ignored. Persistence is often more important than pain.
Regular self-checks do not replace screening tools such as mammograms, but they help build awareness. The World Health Organization highlights early detection as key to improving survival rates.
Signs beyond a lump
A suspicious lump is often firm and may feel fixed in place. However, texture alone cannot confirm anything.
Pay attention to other visible or physical changes:
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- Skin dimpling or thickening
- Nipple inversion or discharge
- A noticeable shift in size or shape
- Ongoing pain in one specific spot
The American Cancer Society advises reporting any of these symptoms to a healthcare professional.
If a change lasts several weeks or seems to grow, a medical evaluation is essential. Doctors may suggest imaging tests such as mammography or ultrasound, and in some cases a biopsy.
Most breast lumps are not cancerous. Still, detecting cancer early significantly improves treatment options and outcomes. Staying informed and proactive could make all the difference.
Sources: The Times of India
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