A cancer specialist has warned that many women overlook key breast cancer signs because they focus only on finding lumps during breast self-checks.
Dr. Tiffany Troso, an oncologist with more than 25 years of experience, said regular self-exams play a vital role in detecting problems early. However, she emphasized that a lump is not the only symptom of breast cancer — and too many cases are missed because of this misconception.
In a recent video shared on social media, Dr. Troso explained that she often hears women say they perform monthly self-checks looking for lumps. “I wish someone had taught them about the other signs too,” she said.
According to Cancer Research UK, breast cancer is the most common cancer in the country. Around 56,900 people are diagnosed annually, and although men can also develop the disease, less than one percent of cases occur in men.
Dr. Troso outlined several lesser-known signs that may indicate breast cancer:
- Changes in breast size or shape
- Dimpling or puckering of the skin
- Nipple turning inward
- Unexplained or bloody nipple discharge
- Redness, thickening, or scaliness of the skin
- Persistent itching or rash
- Swelling near the armpit or collarbone
- A feeling of warmth, heaviness, or pain in the breast
“Many of my patients found cancer because of skin changes or nipple differences, not because of a lump,” Dr. Troso said. “You need to know your breasts well enough to notice when something seems off. If you observe changes, contact your doctor right away. Early detection saves lives — but only if you recognize the warning signs.”
The doctor’s message resonated with many online. Users shared their own experiences of early detection, often through mammograms rather than self-exams. One woman wrote that her cancer was found during a routine screening even though she never felt a lump. Another said her doctor initially dismissed her symptoms because no lump could be felt, yet she was later diagnosed with breast cancer.
Others urged more education for healthcare providers and the public about the wide range of breast cancer symptoms.
Dr. Troso’s advice underscores a simple message: monthly breast self-checks are important, but complete awareness of all possible signs is essential for early diagnosis and treatment.
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