Breast cancer is the most common cancer in the UK, with around 55,000 new cases diagnosed every year. The good news is that when detected early, survival rates are excellent — over 98% of people diagnosed at stage 1 survive for five years or more.
Knowing the early signs of breast cancer and acting promptly can make a significant difference to outcomes. Many people delay seeking help because they are unsure whether their symptoms are serious. This guide explains what to look for and when to contact your GP.
Important: This article is for awareness purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. If you are concerned about any symptom, contact your GP or call NHS 111.
A new lump or thickening in the breast or armpit
See GP promptlyThe most well-known sign of breast cancer is a new lump in the breast or armpit. Most breast lumps are not cancerous — they may be cysts or benign tissue changes — but any new lump that persists should be checked by your GP. The lump may feel hard or soft, painless or tender.
Change in size, shape or feel of the breast
A noticeable change in the size or shape of one breast compared to the other, or a change in how the breast feels — such as becoming harder or more dense — can be a sign of breast cancer. This is particularly significant if the change is new and unexplained.
Skin changes: dimpling, puckering or redness
Changes to the skin of the breast can indicate breast cancer. These include dimpling or puckering of the skin (sometimes described as resembling orange peel), redness, a rash, or thickening of the skin. These changes may be subtle at first.
Nipple changes or discharge
See GP promptlyChanges to the nipple — such as the nipple turning inward (inversion), a change in its position or shape, or a rash around the nipple — can be signs of breast cancer. Discharge from the nipple that is not related to breastfeeding, especially if it is bloodstained, should always be investigated.
Persistent pain in the breast or armpit
While breast pain is very common and usually not caused by cancer, persistent pain in the breast or armpit that does not go away and has no obvious cause — such as a menstrual cycle — should be discussed with your GP, particularly if it is in one specific area.
When to act
NHS Breast Screening Programme
The NHS invites women aged 50 to 71 for a free mammogram (breast X-ray) every 3 years as part of the NHS Breast Screening Programme. Mammograms can detect cancers too small to feel, which is why attending your screening appointment is so important.
If you are under 50 and have a family history of breast cancer, or carry a BRCA gene mutation, speak to your GP about whether earlier or more frequent screening is appropriate for you. You do not need to wait for a screening invitation if you have symptoms — contact your GP directly.
Medically reviewed: · Information aligned with NHS and NICE guidance.