BREAST LUMPS (Part 1)

Finding a lump in your breast can cause a lot of anxiety. Most breast lumps, particularly in younger women, are not caused by cancer. They may be benign, non-cancerous lumps, infection or cysts. You should make an appointment with your GP as soon as possible if you find a breast lump. They will then decide if you need referral to a specialist breast clinic for further tests.

Breast lumps are localized swellings that feel different from the surrounding breast tissue. It is a symptom /sign for a variety of conditions. As approximately 10% of breast lumps ultimately lead to a diagnosis of breast cancer, it is important for women with a breast lump to receive appropriate evaluation.

A normal breast

This diagram shows a normal breast.

The breast is connected to muscles on the wall of your chest. It is made up of fatty tissue. Within the fatty tissue are lobules or milk-forming glands. Milk drains from these glands into breast ducts during breast-feeding. Milk then leaves the ducts through your nipple.

The glands and ducts can decrease or increase in number and size. This will depend on whether they are needed.

Breast lumps can involve any of these different tissues, or components, that make up your breast.

                                                                                                                 to be continued

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