Breast tissue changes throughout the month in adult women. Some changes are normal, but some may require a physician’s attention. It is important that you know the signs and symptoms of breast cancer. When it is discovered early, you have more treatment options and a better chance for long-term survival. In fact, when breast cancer is diagnosed and treated in its early stages, the five-year survival rate is 95 percent.

Most breast lumps are not cancerous. Yet the most common sign of breast cancer for both men and women is a lump or thickening in the breast. Often, the lump is painless.

Other signs of breast cancer include:

  • A spontaneous clear or bloody discharge from your nipple
  • Retraction or indentation of your nipple that is a change for you
  • A change in the size or contours of your breast
  • Any flattening or indentation of the skin over your breast
  • Redness or pitting of the skin over your breast, like the skin of an orange

Other common noncancerous (benign) breast conditions include: Fibrocystic changes. Cysts. Fibroadenomas. Infections. Trauma. Calcium deposits (microcalcifications).

If you find a lump or other change in your breast, please call The Breast Care Center at 319-833-6100 or contact your primary care provider for guidance.