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Five lesser-known symptoms of breast cancer that aren't feeling a lump in chest

Most people will be aware that finding a lump in their breast could be a warning sign of breast cancer, but fewer are familiar with other signs of the disease.

This is worrisome considering most breast cancers don't present with a lump that can be detected by touch, and if they do, it often suggests a fast-growing or advanced-stage cancer that is more resistant to treatment.

A survey by researchers at The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center found that fewer than half of adults recognised the five other symptoms of breast cancer that occur more often.

Breast cancer is the most common cancer in the UK, with 1 woman diagnosed every 10 minutes according to the charity Breast Cancer Now. And it doesn't just affect women – around 400 men are also diagnosed with the disease each year.

Nurse helping patient prepare for mammogram in examination room© Getty Images/Caiaimage

Being alert to potential signs of breast cancer requires one to be familiar with the usual look and feel of their breasts. Breast medical oncologist Dr. Ashley Pariser commented that although mammograms are the "No.1 defence in detecting and addressing breast cancer at the earliest, most treatable stages", being aware of the look and feel of one's own breast tissue allows subtle changes to be evaluated quickly, which improves the likelihood of early detection.

"We want people to feel empowered about their bodies and know what is normal for them. Many breast changes are the result of ageing and childbirth; however, breast cancer can present in a number of ways", said Pariser. "It is important that people feel safe to address these concerns in a timely way with their doctor. We have made great strides in detecting breast cancers in far earlier, more treatable stages.

The lesser-known symptoms of breast cancer include:

The most concerning types of discharge are bloody and/or clear, but if your nipples are producing leaky discharge when you are not breastfeeding a baby, speak to your doctor.

When should I get a mammogram?

Mammograms are X-ray pictures of the breasts that can pick up on cancers that are too small to see or feel. They are a primary tool in most clinicians' breast-screening arsenals – but a third of the women surveyed confessed they weren't sure when they should get their first mammogram, with women under 30 being especially confused.

Anyone registered with an NHS GP as female will be invited for breast screening every 3 years between the ages of 50 and 71 via a letter in the posts. Those 71 years-old and above will not be automatically invited for breast screening, but can still undergo one every 3 years on a voluntary basis.

Trans men, trans women, and non-binary people may be invited automatically depending on how they are registered on NHS records. Otherwise, talk to your GP surgery or contact the local breast screening service to ask for an appointment. 

Story by Mizy Judah Clifton  : Mirror: