Each year, approximately 1,380,000 new cases of breast cancer are recorded, and 458,000 deaths occur due to it, of which 269,000 are in developing countries.

In other words, most deaths are recorded in poor and developing countries, and this is due to the lack of awareness of the disease and its late detection, which reduces the possibility of recovery and raises the risk of death.

Breast cancer occurs when some cells begin to grow abnormally as a result of a mutation or change in the genetic material, and then spread to the rest of the breast areas and to the lymph nodes, and from there to other parts of the body.

Breast cancer usually begins in the cells of the ducts that produce milk, and may also begin in the glandular tissue in the breast.

Breast cancer is not limited to a specific age, but young girls also get it.

And because there are many myths surrounding this type of tumor, women may get confused in following prevention and treatment precautions.

The German Federal Center for Health Awareness says that early diagnosis increases the chances of curing breast cancer, so women must undergo periodic examinations starting at the age of 30.

While lumps and lumps are among the most common symptoms of breast cancer, there are other possible signs that should be noticed when you see your doctor.

boils

In her report, published by the Australian edition of Readers Digest, author Lisa Milbrand said that in a widely circulated post on social media, only one symptom of a woman who had cancer appeared, represented by the emergence of dimples on the edges of her breasts. .

In general, women may overlook this sign of a tumor during their monthly self-examination.

In this context, oncologist Dr. Anita Johnson indicated that the doctor should examine any dimples or shrinkage that appear on the skin of the breast.

Biomarkers and precision medicine in the treatment of breast cancer (Source: Qatar Biomedical Research Institute, Hamad Bin Khalifa University)

skin irritation

The author stated that there are many reasons that can contribute to skin irritation, such as wearing an ill-fitting bra, heat rash, contact dermatitis or other skin problems.

In rare cases, skin irritation can be a symptom of breast cancer.

In this regard, gynecologist Jessica Shepherd said, "You should see a doctor when you notice strange redness, swelling, skin irritation, itching or rashes on the breasts for longer than expected."

nipple discharge

The writer added that you should not worry about breast secretions if you are pregnant or breastfeeding your child, as for other women, the doctor should examine certain types of secretions.

In this context, Dr. Shepherd stated that "green or yellow nipple discharge or bloody discharge could be a symptom of breast cancer."

freckles

Dr. Johnson pointed out that the appearance of dark marks and freckles on the skin is not just a sign of the need to see a dermatologist, but could be an indication of the presence of a rare and more aggressive form of breast cancer called inflammatory breast cancer.

Johnson added that if you notice new spots of freckles, you should consult a doctor, and Johnson continued, saying, "Inflammatory breast cancer is rare. Therefore, there is no need to panic."

Red spots or bruises

Johnson said other symptoms of inflammatory breast cancer can include red spots or bruise-like marks on the skin.

Johnson suggested "getting an appointment with a doctor if these red spots spread and persist for more than two to three weeks."

On the other hand, we must bear in mind that this type of cancer is rare, as many types of red spots that appear on your skin, such as cherry hemangioma, can be completely benign.

Breast Cancer Treatments (Source: Qatar Biomedical Research Institute, Hamad Bin Khalifa University in Qatar)

Nipple changes

The writer stated that the shape, size or color of the nipples does not change except in the event of pregnancy.

On the other hand, Dr. Shepherd said: "If you notice any changes in the shape of your nipples, you should get a breast cancer screening. These changes can include nipple retraction or contraction."

For her part, Dr. Johnson said that feeling itchy and crusty on the nipples may be a sign of Paget's disease, which is a rare form of breast cancer.

Johnson continued, saying, "This disease can appear in the form of crusts on the nipple or a dry layer of skin, whether on the nipple or the surrounding skin, or both, and may cause tingling or burning. In fact, there are many reasons for feeling itchy in addition to Scales appear on the breasts. Therefore, try to talk to your doctor about your concerns."

Change in skin tissue

The writer indicated that it is possible that changes in the skin of the breast are a sign that something is wrong.

In this context, Shepherd said that "breast cancer can sometimes cause a change in the breast tissue. The redness of the skin and the appearance of the bumps occur due to inflammation of the breast tissue due to the presence of cancer cells that would block the small lymph channels inside the breast, causing fluid to accumulate."

Swelling or pain

Breast swelling or soreness is a common issue for women during their menstrual cycle, and it can even be a sign of early pregnancy.

For this reason, women often overlook this sign as a symptom of breast cancer.

Shepherd advised that "if one of the breasts appears enlarged or swollen, you should examine the breast. If the tumor is deep, you may not feel it. On the other hand, you may experience some swelling."

For her part, Johnson said, "You may not notice a lump in the breast, but if you feel a lump under the armpit, it may be a sign of an enlarged lymph node. In addition, a lump may be a sign of the beginning of the spread of breast cancer. Monthly breast self-examination, you should always check for lymph nodes under the arms.

Change in breast size or shape

Johnson said that weight gain, changes in your menstrual cycle, pregnancy or breastfeeding can affect the size and shape of your breasts. If your breasts suddenly change shape for no reason, it could be a sign of cancer. Therefore, you should make an appointment to see your doctor and get an examination. Johnson added, "It can happen a week before menstruation. So, you have to wait a week after menstruation to see if the breasts return to their normal size. In contrast, if this change occurs in both breasts, it is most likely not due to breast cancer".