Breast cancer is a disease that begins when abnormal cells grow in breast tissue. After skin cancer, it is the most common cancer diagnosed in women in the U.S., but it can affect anyone—men included—since everyone has breast tissue.
Types of Breast Cancer
There are several types, including:
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Ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS)
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Invasive lobular carcinoma
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Lobular carcinoma in situ (LCIS)
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Inflammatory breast cancer
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Paget’s disease
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Male breast cancer
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Recurrent cancer
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Angiosarcoma
Common Symptoms
Warning signs may vary but often include:
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A new lump in the breast or underarm
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Changes in breast size, shape, or contour
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Skin dimpling, redness, or scaling
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Nipple discharge (clear or bloody)
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Hardened areas or persistent thickening
Other Causes
Not all changes signal cancer. Hormonal shifts, pregnancy, menopause, or benign conditions can also cause lumps or discomfort.
Stages of Cancer
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Stage 0: Noninvasive
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Stage I–III: Increasing spread within breast and nearby tissue
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Stage IV: Metastatic cancer
When to See a Doctor
If you notice any unusual changes, don’t wait. Even if your last mammogram was normal, see a healthcare provider for evaluation.
