Many breast changes, such as tenderness or slight lumpiness, are caused by monthly hormonal fluctuations, and others can be part of the normal ageing process. In this section of the website, the Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation provides you with information about other kinds of breast changes to look for when you are being breast aware.
The Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation encourages women and men to be breast aware.
Here are some changes to look for as you check your breast health:
Changes to the size or shape of one or both breasts.
Unusual, persistent pain in the breast or armpit.
Swelling under the armpit or below the collarbone.
Changes to skin texture on your breasts, such as puckering or dimpling.
Unusual discharge, rash or crusting from the nipples or surrounding areas.
Lumps/thickening
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Skin changes
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Dimpling/puckering
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If you notice any breast changes that concern you, the Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation encourages you to discuss them with a health care provider. There are many normal breast changes, and others can be caused by benign (noncancerous) conditions. Many breast changes are temporary and most will not be a sign of breast cancer. By being aware of these changes and discussing them with a health care provider, you are taking preventive actions to care for your breast health.
Besides knowing what changes to look for, being breast aware means that you look and feel for changes that seem unusual to you.