• A lump on the breast or armpit

• Thickening or swelling of part of the breast

• Irritation or dimpling of breast skin

• Redness or flaky skin in the nipple area or the breast

• Nipple discharge other than breast milk

• Any change in shape or size of the breast

• Pain in the chest

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Women can conduct breast self-exams at home at the same time every month to check for any of these symptoms. Breast self-exams, along with regular clinical exams with your health care provider, are key. If you notice any of the warning signs or changes, call your doctor right away.

An X-ray picture of the breast can detect a tumor before a woman has any symptoms, and before a tumor is large enough to be felt as a lump. This type of X-ray is called a mammogram.

Women older than 50 years old should have a mammogram every two years, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Women between 40 and 49 should speak with their doctors about how often to be screened.

Women who find breast cancer in its earliest stages have the best chance for successful treatment.