A breast change doesn’t have to be dramatic to deserve attention. And you don’t need to wait until your next mammogram to get it checked.
This Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Wollongong Diagnostics breast radiologist Dr Alok Gupta is encouraging people to become familiar with their breasts and speak to their GP if something changes.
“My takeaway message is very clear: be breast aware,” he said.
“Don’t sit on it. Go to your doctor, get it investigated.”
That means knowing what is normal for you, keeping up with recommended screening and understanding when further assessment may be needed.
Look beyond a lump
A new lump is one reason to see your GP. But breast changes can take other forms, too.
Changes to get checked include:
- A new lump or thickening in the breast or armpit.
- A change in breast size or shape.
- Skin changes, including dimpling or redness.
- A nipple that has newly turned inwards, or developed crusting or a rash.
- Nipple discharge that happens without squeezing.
- Unusual breast or armpit pain that doesn’t go away.
Most breast changes are not caused by cancer. A medical assessment can help establish what is happening and whether tests are needed.
You don’t need to know what a change means before making an appointment. Describing what you have noticed gives your GP a starting point.
Understand why breast density matters
Breast density describes the amount of fibrous and glandular tissue compared with fatty tissue on a mammogram. It isn’t something you can reliably judge by how your breasts look or feel.
Dense tissue and cancers can both appear white on a mammogram, making some cancers harder to see. Higher breast density also increases breast cancer risk.
3D mammography can help radiologists distinguish abnormalities from overlapping tissue. But it doesn’t remove all the challenges of dense breasts.
If you have been told you have dense breasts, ask your GP or specialist what that means for your screening and whether additional imaging would be appropriate.
Where breast MRI can help
Contrast-enhanced breast MRI is the most sensitive breast imaging method for detecting cancer. Its ability to detect cancer is not limited by breast density in the same way as mammography.
It can identify cancers that are not visible on mammography or ultrasound and can be particularly valuable for women with extremely dense breasts or a higher breast cancer risk.
MRI is not needed by everyone. Your doctor and radiologist can consider your breast density, personal risk, symptoms and previous findings when recommending imaging.
An MRI generally involves an injection of contrast and can lead to further tests for findings that turn out to be benign. The benefits, suitability and costs should be discussed as part of that decision.
A normal mammogram is not a reason to ignore a change
Breast cancer can become apparent between screening appointments. If something new develops, see your GP rather than waiting for your next routine mammogram.
Dr Gupta also encourages patients to return if a change persists or gets worse after an initially reassuring assessment. Your doctor can review the symptoms and results and decide whether further investigation is needed.
Having no family history does not mean a new symptom can be dismissed. Breast cancer also occurs in people without an affected relative, and changes deserve attention at any age.
Breast imaging at Wollongong Diagnostics
Wollongong Diagnostics offers 3D mammography at Kiama and Corrimal, with breast ultrasound, breast MRI and biopsy services helping assess individual concerns where appropriate.
Noticed a breast change? Speak to your GP and ask about a referral for breast imaging at Wollongong Diagnostics.
Have dense breasts or concerns about your risk? Ask your GP or specialist whether breast MRI could be appropriate for you. Our team can explain appointment options, referral requirements and applicable fees.
Already have a referral? Contact Wollongong Diagnostics to book your breast imaging appointment.