Breast cancer impacts 1 in 8 women in the United States. Timely identification is crucial for effective cancer treatment.
Understanding the initial signs of invasive breast cancer and seeking medical assistance promptly is of utmost importance for women, rather than facing the advanced stages of the illness.
Here are the five notable warning signs and symptoms of breast cancer that every woman should be aware of:
- New moles or changes in existing moles: Moles can potentially serve as an early indication of breast cancer. Research indicates that women with moles have a 13% higher risk of developing breast cancer compared to those without moles.
- Hoarseness and persistent cough: When breast cancer spreads to the lungs, it can result in persistent coughing and hoarseness of the throat. Around 60-70% of breast cancer patients experience lung metastasis, leading to a dry cough and difficulty in breathing.
- Altered bowel or bladder patterns: Breast cancer patients might observe changes in their hormone levels, which can cause urethral dryness and subsequently incontinence. This can result in urine leakage during laughter, coughing, exercise, and even sneezing. Additionally, these patients may experience urgency in urination and prolonged urination duration.
- Unexplained and persistent fatigue: Fatigue is a common feature in many cancers, including breast cancer. Even after adequate sleep, cancer patients often feel tired. They may also contend with feelings of depression and pain. This fatigue arises not from physical exhaustion, but from chemical imbalances in the body triggered by cancer.
- Mysterious back pain: Back pain affects a significant number of individuals, with 8 out of 10 people experiencing it. Moreover, breast cancer can contribute to unexplained back discomfort. Breast cancer patients may feel pressure on the spine and ribs, leading to upper back pain. This sensation might appear related to bone pain, possibly indicating the spread of breast cancer to the bones.
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