October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a reminder that breast cancer is one of the most common cancers in women worldwide and one where early detection makes a real difference. Most breast lumps are not cancer, but knowing what is normal for your body and acting quickly on changes can save lives. This guide covers the signs to look out for, who is at risk and how screening works, including in India.
How common is breast cancer?
According to the World Health Organization, an estimated 2.4 million women were diagnosed with breast cancer in 2024, and there were 694,000 deaths globally. It was the most common cancer in women in 164 of 186 countries that year.
Breast cancer can occur at any age after puberty, but rates rise later in life. It also affects men, although rarely: WHO says about 0.5–1% of breast cancers occur in men.
Who is at risk?
The strongest risk factors are being female and getting older. In fact, WHO says about 80% of breast cancers develop in women with no modifiable risk factor other than sex and age (over 40). That is why awareness matters for every woman, not just those with a family history.
Other factors that increase risk include:
- obesity
- harmful use of alcohol
- tobacco use
- a family history of breast cancer
- a history of radiation exposure
- reproductive history, such as the age periods began and age at first pregnancy
- postmenopausal hormone therapy
Some inherited gene changes, particularly in the BRCA1, BRCA2 and PALB2 genes, greatly increase risk. WHO notes that most women diagnosed with breast cancer do not have a known family history, but having no family history does not necessarily mean your risk is low. If several close relatives have had breast or ovarian cancer, ask a doctor whether genetic counselling is appropriate.
Early signs to look out for
WHO lists the following possible symptoms:
- a lump or thickening in the breast, often without pain
- a change in the size, shape or appearance of the breast
- dimpling, redness, pitting or other changes in the skin
- a change in the appearance of the nipple or the skin around it (the areola)
- abnormal or bloody fluid from the nipple
Because breast cancer often spreads first to the lymph nodes under the arm, a lump in the armpit is also worth checking.
See a doctor if you notice any of these changes, even if there is no pain. WHO stresses that people with an abnormal breast lump should seek medical care even if it does not hurt. Most lumps turn out not to be cancer, but cancers that are found when they are small and have not spread are more likely to be treated successfully.
Breast awareness: know your normal
Get used to how your breasts normally look and feel, including how they change across your monthly cycle. You do not need a special technique. Looking in the mirror and feeling your breasts while bathing or dressing can help you notice something new. If you spot a change that does not go away, book an appointment rather than waiting for your next check-up.
How screening works
WHO describes two parts to early detection:
- Early diagnosis: being aware of the signs and symptoms and getting prompt medical evaluation for any abnormal finding.
- Screening: testing apparently healthy women to find cancers before symptoms appear. WHO says this usually means mammography for women aged 50–69.
Screening recommendations differ between countries, and your doctor may advise a different schedule based on your personal and family history.
Screening in India
India's national programme for non-communicable diseases includes population-based screening for common cancers. According to Health Ministry training material, women aged 30–65 are offered a clinical breast examination (CBE), a physical examination by a trained health worker, once every five years. It is carried out at the sub-centre or primary health centre level by trained ANMs, staff nurses or medical officers.
If a lump or other abnormality is found, women are referred to a surgeon at a community health centre or district hospital for further tests, which may include ultrasound and a biopsy.
Ask at your nearest government health centre or your doctor about breast screening, especially if you are over 30 and have never been examined.
Treatment has improved
Treatment depends on the type of breast cancer and how far it has spread. It may combine surgery, radiotherapy and medicines such as hormone therapy, chemotherapy or targeted therapy. WHO notes that treatments are more effective and better tolerated when started early and taken to completion, and that most of the medicines used for breast cancer are on its Essential Medicines List.
Reducing your risk
Not every case can be prevented, but you can lower some risks:
- maintain a healthy weight
- stay physically active
- avoid tobacco and limit alcohol
- talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of any hormone therapy
FAQ
Is a painless lump less worrying? No. Breast cancer lumps are often painless. Any new lump should be checked by a doctor.
Can men get breast cancer? Yes, though it is rare. WHO says about 0.5–1% of breast cancers occur in men.
At what age should I start breast screening? It depends on your country and personal risk. WHO describes mammography screening usually for women aged 50–69. India's programme offers clinical breast examination to women aged 30–65 every five years.
Are most breast lumps cancer? No. Most breast lumps are not cancer, but every new lump needs medical evaluation.
