There are some signs that may tell you if you have breast cancer. Breast cancer is formed when normal cells divide and multiple in uncontrollable fashion. This causes the development of extra cells which further lump together and create a tumor. Some physical changes may appear in the breast and its surrounding area such as presence of lumps that does not go away, inversion of the nipple, discharge from the breast, and changes to the skin color which overlies the breast.

Bear in mind that most lumps that are found in the breast are not always cancerous. However, you should consult with a doctor to have them checked. Discharge from the breast is also a common problem in women, which does not necessarily lead to a cancer disease. Changes in nipple, which makes it pointing inward, are often temporary and considered normal in some women. Nevertheless, if those conditions become permanent then it should be discussed with your doctor.

Symptoms of breast cancer vary depending on the stage it is in. There is usually no obvious pain or any signs in the early stage of breast cancer. The development of breast cancer can take from a period of months or years. Once the disease is detected, treatment has to be given immediately to avoid the spread of the cancer to other parts of the body, which is known as metastastic spread.

A simple way to check breast cancer is through breast exam. It involves touching and feeling around the breast and under the arms to find any lumps or other abnormalities. The exam is usually conducted by a female doctor. Another common test for signs for breast cancer is called mammography exam. A mammogram is an x-ray of the breast that will show any abnormal growth of tissues.

Breast cancer is one of the lethal diseases for women of all ages. There are several factor risks that can increase the chance of having the disease. Study has shown that women in the age group above 50 are more likely to have breast cancer than that of below 30. Menstrual cycle also partly contributes to the risk for breast cancer. The risk is getting bigger for women who have early menstrual and late menopause. Breast cancer is also more frequently developed in spinsters and married woman that have not given birth to children or those who have given birth but then have not breast fed their offspring. Some other factors include diet, radiation from the environment, genetics, and lifestyle.