Understanding Breast Cancer: Symptoms, Causes, and When to Seek Help

Breast cancer is a disease that begins when abnormal cells grow in breast tissue. After skin cancer, it is the most common cancer diagnosed in women in the U.S., but it can affect anyone—men included—since everyone has breast tissue.

Types of Breast Cancer

There are several types, including:

• Ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS)

• Invasive lobular carcinoma

• Lobular carcinoma in situ (LCIS)

• Inflammatory breast cancer

• Paget’s disease

• Male breast cancer

• Recurrent cancer

• Angiosarcoma

Common Symptoms

Warning signs may vary but often include:

• A new lump in the breast or underarm

• Changes in breast size, shape, or contour

• Skin dimpling, redness, or scaling

• Nipple discharge (clear or bloody)

• Hardened areas or persistent thickening

Other Causes

Not all changes signal cancer. Hormonal shifts, pregnancy, menopause, or benign conditions can also cause lumps or discomfort.

Stages of Cancer

• Stage 0: Noninvasive

• Stage I–III: Increasing spread within breast and nearby tissue

• Stage IV: Metastatic cancer

When to See a Doctor

If you notice any unusual changes, don’t wait. Even if your last mammogram was normal, see a healthcare provider for evaluation.