More than 59,000 people are diagnosed with breast cancer each year, making it the most common cancer in the UK.
Around 1 in 7 women in the UK will develop breast cancer in their lifetime.
Breast cancer is described by Cancer Research UK as ‘abnormal cells in the breast that begin to grow and divide in an uncontrolled way’.
Symptoms can manifest in a variety of ways, but some common ones include:
- Breast lump – a new lump or thickening in the breast
- Lump or swelling in your armpit – a new lump or swelling that does not go away.
- Change in your breast – a change in size, shape or feel of your breast.
- Skin changes – A sudden occurrence of puckering, dimpling, rash, redness or a new ulcer (sore)
- Unusual nipple discharge – although common in pregnancy, it can be a sign of breast cancer if you are not currently pregnant.
- Nipple position change – nipple may have become inverted.
Breast cancer can be life-threatening and can affect anyone, although it is most common in women over 50; around 8 in 10 women diagnosed are in this age group.
There are a few factors that can increase your risk of developing breast cancer. These include:
- If you’ve had breast cancer before.
- If you have dense breast tissue.
- Hormonal factors – taking HRT for 5+ years, not having children, having a late menopause etc.
- If you have multiple family members who have been diagnosed with breast cancer.
- If a man in your family has been diagnosed with breast cancer.
Breast screening plays an important role in detecting some cancers. An NHS digital report found that nearly 19,300 breast cancers were diagnosed through screening between 2024 and 2025.
Screening does not prevent breast cancer, but it can help identify some cancers before symptoms appear.
The NHS invite GP-registered women aged 50-71 to be screened for breast cancer every three years. Women over 71 can request to be screened by contacting their GP.
If you notice any unusual changes to your breasts, or have concerns about your breast health or personal risk, speak with a healthcare professional. More information about NHS breast screening can be found through official NHS guidance.
Cancer Research UK, 2026. Breast Cancer. [Online]
Available at: https://www.cancerresearchuk.org/about-cancer/breast-cancer
[Accessed 28 July 2026].
Macmillan Cancer Support, 2026. Breast Cancer. [Online]
Available at: https://www.macmillan.org.uk/cancer-information-and-support/breast-cancer
[Accessed 28 July 2026].
This article provides general information only and is not medical advice. If you have concerns about your health, please speak to a healthcare professional.
