Being breast aware is knowing what your breasts look like and how they feel.
- The first noticeable symptom of breast cancer may be / is often a lump in the breast, a new inversion of the nipple or tethering of the skin of the breast.
- It is important to be breast aware so you can pick up any changes as soon as possible.
- Most breast lumps (90%) are not cancerous but it’s always best to have them checked by your doctor.
- Get to know what is normal for you – for instance, your breasts may look or feel different at different times of your life. This will make it much easier to spot potential problems.

Symptoms of breast cancer include:
- a new lump in either breast that was not there before
- a change in the size or shape of one or both breasts
- bloodstained discharge from your nipple
- a lump or swelling in either of your armpits
- dimpling on the skin of your breasts
- a rash on or around your nipple
- a change in the appearance of your nipple, such as becoming sunken into your breast.
If you have any of these symptoms, you should see a GP.
For more information about the signs and symptoms of breast cancer
Breast Cancer Now
COVID-19 update
If you have symptoms that you are worried may be cancer, it is important to still seek advice from your GP surgery. Your symptoms do not mean you have cancer and could be caused by a number of common conditions but it is always best to get checked.
Information about reporting symptoms of breast cancer during the COVID-19 pandemic
Breast Screening
The aim of breast screening is to detect a breast cancer early. You will be invited to attend for a mammogram every three years from the age of 50 to 71 as part of a national breast screening programme. A mammogram is an x-ray test that can spot cancers when they’re too small to see or feel.
If you are 71 or over, a breast screening invitation will not automatically be sent, however, you can ask to continue breast screening every three years. Your GP can put you in touch with your local screening unit or you can look them up.
Some breast screening clinics in England are taking part in an age extension trial where some women under 50 and over 70 are invited to attend screening. This is to find out whether it is beneficial to extend the age range for breast screening.
For further information about breast screening, what happens, the results, and benefits and risks
Breast Cancer Now
NHS
Gov.uk
COVID-19 update
Breast screening services are now available again, however appointment slots are reduced to ensure safety between each patient. Appointment slots will gradually start to increase.
You will be invited for breast screening programme from the age of 50 to 71 (until your 71st birthday). This means you will receive an invitation by your 53rd birthday.
Until further notice there will no longer be a facility for women over the age of 71 to self-refer to the screening programme. If you are over the age of 71 and have any breast concerns, your GP will be able to refer you using a fast track referral as usual.
For more information about fast track referrals during the COVID-19 pandemic download a fast track referrals leaflet:
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Due to the ongoing pandemic, the age extension trial (screening from the age 47 to 50 and 70 to 73) has been stopped until further notice.
If you are unable to attend your screening appointment, currently you will not be offered a another.
How should you check your breasts?
There’s no right or wrong way to check your breasts but it is important to know how your breasts usually look and feel. That way, you can spot any changes quickly and report them to your GP.
Every woman’s breasts are different in terms of size, shape and consistency. It’s also possible for one breast to be larger than the other.
Get used to how your breasts feel at different times of the month. Your breasts can change during your menstrual cycle. For example, you may have tender and lumpy breasts, especially near the armpit, around the time of your period.
For information on the signs and symptoms of breast cancer
Breast Cancer Now
Your GP will assess any symptoms you may notice, examine both of your breasts and possibly arrange blood tests.
After examining you, your GP may:
- feel there is no need for further investigation and reassure you
- ask you to make another appointment with them in a short amount of time for review and another examination
- refer you to a breast clinic using a fast track referral
- your GP may also refer you using a fast track referral for breast symptoms even if they do not necessarily suspect these are due to cancer. This is called a symptomatic breast fast track referral where the GP feels the input of a consultant is needed.
COVID-19 update
Even if you are referred to a breast clinic, this does not necessarily mean you have breast cancer. Non-cancerous breast conditions are very common and a referral is made for all breast problems, not just a suspected cancer.
For more information on benign breast conditions
Breast Cancer Now