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Breast cancer symptoms: What to look out for

Early detection is incredibly crucial when it comes to breast cancer.
/ Source: TODAY

Early detection is incredibly crucial when it comes to breast cancer. Different types of breast cancer come with different symptoms. According to the American Cancer Society, about 12 percent of U.S. women will develop invasive breast cancer during their lifetime.

Breast cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death in women. The most common thing to look out for is a lump, either on the breast or the under arm. If that mass is painless, hard and has irregular edges, it's more likely to be cancer.

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Many people know to look out for unusual lumps, but some symptoms can be more subtle. Skin irritation or a slight indention in the breast, known as dimpling, can also be something to look out for. Changes in your nipples could also be red flags — if you experience nipple pain, discharge or your nipple turns inward, talk to your doctor.

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Most breast changes that are tested turn out to be non-cancerous, but it's always best to err on the side of caution, and talk to your doctor if you notice any of the symptoms outlined above. For more information on breast cancer, please visit the American Cancer Society.