Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women worldwide, with around 2.3 million new cases diagnosed each year (WHO). It is also the most common cancer among Indian women – roughly 1 in 28 may develop it in their lifetime. The good news: when caught early, breast cancer is highly treatable, with 5-year survival above 90% for localised disease. This guide covers the symptoms, risk factors, and how early detection saves lives.
Last updated: 16 June 2026. Reviewed for medical accuracy by the Even team.
Key takeaways
- Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women – about 2.3 million new cases a year globally.
- Early detection is critical: localised breast cancer has a 5-year survival above 90%.
- Know the signs: a new lump, change in breast shape or size, nipple discharge or skin changes.
- Monthly self-awareness plus screening (mammograms, usually from age 40-50) catch most cases early.
- It can affect men too, though it is rare.
Signs and symptoms of breast cancer
- A new lump or thickening in the breast or armpit
- Change in breast size, shape or contour
- Nipple discharge (especially blood-stained) or a newly inverted nipple
- Dimpling, puckering or redness of the skin (an “orange-peel” texture)
- Persistent breast or nipple pain
Most breast lumps are not cancer – but any new or persistent change should be checked by a doctor promptly.
Risk factors
| You cannot change | You can influence |
|---|---|
| Being female; older age | Excess weight, especially after menopause |
| Family history / BRCA gene mutations | Alcohol intake |
| Early periods / late menopause | Physical inactivity |
| Dense breast tissue | Long-term hormone therapy |
Early detection: screening and self-checks
Early detection is the single biggest factor in survival. Be familiar with how your breasts normally look and feel, and report changes early. Screening mammograms are generally recommended from around age 40-50 (depending on guidelines and personal risk) and can find tumours before they can be felt. A regular annual health check-up is a good time to discuss screening.
When to see a doctor
See a doctor promptly if you notice any new lump, skin or nipple change, or unusual breast pain. Do not wait – most changes are harmless, but early evaluation is what makes breast cancer so treatable. Like testicular cancer, it is one of the most catchable cancers when you act early.
Frequently Asked Questions
A new lump in the breast or armpit, change in breast size or shape, nipple discharge or inversion, and skin dimpling or redness. Any new or persistent change should be checked by a doctor.
It is the most common cancer in women worldwide, with around 2.3 million new cases each year, and the most common cancer among Indian women.
When found early (localised), 5-year survival is above 90%. Survival drops if it is detected after it has spread, which is why early detection matters.
Screening mammograms are generally recommended from around age 40 to 50, depending on guidelines and personal risk. Talk to your doctor about the right time for you.
No. Most breast lumps are not cancerous, but any new or persistent lump or change should be evaluated by a doctor to be sure.
Yes, men can get breast cancer, though it is rare. Any breast lump or change in men should also be checked.
The bottom line
Breast cancer is common but highly treatable when found early. Know the signs, stay familiar with your body, and get screened as advised. Explore more in our Health section.
Screening and treatment are easier when care is covered: see health insurance with OPD cover, and women’s health care at Even Hospital in Bangalore.
Related reading
- Testicular cancer: catch it early
- Annual health check-ups after 40
- Thriving after 50: women’s health
- More from the Even Health blog
References
- World Health Organization (WHO) – breast cancer fact sheet.
- Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) – cancer statistics in India.
- American Cancer Society – breast cancer early detection and survival.
