Breast Cancer

Breast cancer usually develops because of a mix of things over time. Often there is no single cause.

Lifestyle and health factors that can increase risk:

• Drinking alcohol regularly. The more you drink, the higher the risk

• Being overweight, especially after the menopause

• Not being very active over many years

• Hormone medicines, such as HRT. The contraceptive pill can slightly increase risk while taking it

• Smoking may also play a part

Longer-term factors you cannot change:

• Getting older 

• Family history of breast or ovarian cancer

• Inherited gene changes, such as BRCA1/BRCA2

• Dense breast tissue

• Starting periods early or going through the menopause later 

Having one or more risk factors does not mean someone will develop breast cancer, but getting to know your body and being aware of changes is important.

You don’t need to panic, just notice what’s normal for you. Here are some things to look out for:

• A lump or thickening in the breast or armpit that feels new or different
• A change in the size or shape of a breast
• Changes to the skin on the breast, such as dimpling, redness or the skin looking like an orange peel
• Changes to the nipple including pulling in, a rash or crusting
• Fluid leaking from the nipple especially if it is bloody and you are not pregnant or breastfeeding
• Pain in the breast or armpit that does not go away

When to get advice

Speak to your GP practice if you notice a new lump or swelling, skin dimpling/redness, nipple changes, or nipple discharge (especially blood-stained).

Tests and next steps for breast cancer in women - NHS

For more information you can visit any of the links below.