• 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

Finding one of these symptoms does not mean you have breast cancer. These symptoms can also be caused by benign breast conditions. If you are experiencing any of these warning signs, it is important to contact your doctor as soon as possible. Regular screenings (mammograms) are the best way to find breast cancer early, before any symptoms appear.

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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.

The United States Preventive Services Task Force (USPSRF) recommends that all women get screened with a mammogram for breast cancer every one or two years, starting at age 40 and continuing through age 74, to reduce their risk of dying from this disease. It’s important to talk to your doctor for an individualized screening schedule.

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