Information · 5 minute read
Know the signs.
Knowing helps.
Most breast changes aren't cancer. But it's worth knowing what to look for — and what to do if something seems different. This page is plain-English, no scare tactics, just the facts.
The five signs to look out for
Breast cancer can show up in many ways, but these five changes are the ones to take seriously enough to mention to a doctor:
- A lump or thickening in the breast, upper chest, or armpit that wasn't there before.
- A change in shape or size of one breast.
- Skin changes — puckering, dimpling, a rash, or redness on the skin.
- Nipple changes — a nipple that has become pulled in or changed direction; a rash or crusting around it; unexpected discharge.
- Pain in the breast or armpit that's there all or most of the time.
Important: most of these can have completely innocent causes. But if something looks or feels different, get it checked. The earlier breast cancer is found, the easier it is to treat.
A self-check in three steps.
Once a month, in the shower or in front of the mirror. It takes two minutes.
Look
Stand in front of a mirror with arms by your side. Then arms raised. Then hands on hips, pressing in. Look for any change in shape, dimpling, rashes, or nipple direction.
Feel
Using the flat of your fingertips, press gently in small circles, covering the whole breast and right up into the armpit. Easiest in the shower with soap.
Note
Get to know what's normal for you. Breasts are lumpy and bumpy. The point isn't to spot cancer — it's to spot change.
Things people ask us.
I've found a lump. Do I have cancer?
Almost certainly not. Around 9 out of 10 breast lumps are benign — cysts, fibroadenomas, or just normal breast tissue. But you still need to see a GP, because the only way to know for sure is to have it looked at.
I'm too young to have breast cancer, right?
Most breast cancers are found in women over 50 — but not all. Women in their 20s and 30s can be diagnosed too, and so can men. If something doesn't feel right, age is not a good reason to wait.
Does breast pain mean cancer?
Usually not. Most breast pain is hormonal and changes through your cycle. But persistent pain in one spot, unrelated to your cycle, deserves a check.
What about screening in Gibraltar?
The GHA offers routine mammograms for women aged 45-70. If you haven't had your invitation and you're in that age bracket, ring your GP or the Primary Care Centre. Earlier or extra screening is available if you have family history.
Should I be worried about family history?
If a close relative — mother, sister, daughter — has had breast cancer, especially under 50, it's worth mentioning to your GP. They may refer you for earlier screening or genetic testing. Most cases of breast cancer aren't hereditary, but it's a sensible conversation.
Talk to someone who's been there.
If you've found something and you'd rather not face it alone, call us. We won't diagnose — that's for your GP — but we'll listen, we'll talk you through what happens next, and we'll be there for whatever comes.