About 90,000 breast cancer cases reported in Pakistan and over 40,000 died because of it. Dr. Rufina Soomro, a leading cancer specialist in the surgery department at Liaquat National Hospital disclosed these horrifying statistics during a fundraiser. She also added that Pakistan has the highest rate of breast cancer in Asia, although it is the only curable cancer if diagnosed at an early stage unfortunately due to the typical myths, taboos, and insufficient knowledge, the case becomes worst.

For every woman, knowing their breast and its health is very important. But due to lack of awareness, we know about only a few of symptoms of breast cancer and many of them are totally false. Here, we have compiled a list of early symptoms of breast cancer through which you can easily check your breast at your home before going for mammography.

1. A New Lump Or Mass

The most common symptom of breast cancer is a new lump or mass which may be painless and has irregular edges but breast cancer can be tender, soft and round in shape. For this reason, it is necessary to have a new lump so that you and your doctor diagnose it better.

2. Change In Size Or Shape

Can you see any visible change in the breast? For example, one breast might become larger or lower than the other, this is time to see your doctor.

3. Persistent Swelling And Itching

Sometimes breast cancer can originate from lymph nodes (under the arm and around collarbone) and cause a lump, swelling or itching there. So never ignore the swollen lymph nodes and should be checked by a healthcare provider.

4. Change In The Nipples

If you are feeling tenderness in the nipples discharging some fluid other than breastmilk or if they are going inwards, go and see your doctor at earliest. Also, keep a check if the skin around the nipple is getting red or having rashes even after wearing a comfortable bra.

5. Losing Or Gaining Weight And Feeling Down With Each Passing Day

Never ignore sudden weight loss or gain, tiredness, the back pain and weakness, it might become the reason for a huge problem.

6. Change To Skin Texture

If the skin of the breast is puckering or dimpling, its color is changing like an orange, consider this symptom seriously.

Before Taking An Appointment From Doctor,

1. Inspect your breast right after your periods.

2. Examine your breast, nipples and its skin closely after taking bath.

3. Squeeze your breast to make sure that if there is any lump exists or not.

4. Take a tissue paper to see if there is any fluid discharging from the nipples.

5. Make a list of each and every symptom whether it seems funny for you.

Keep In Mind!

Don’t feel shy if you find any of the above symptoms of breast cancer. About 20 percent of the time, breast cancers are found by physical examination rather than by mammography, so don’t overlook your health and see the doctor without being hesitant.