Breast and Cervical Cancer
Download PDF
Breast Cancer
Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women worldwide. In 2024, an estimated 2.4 million women were diagnosed globally. Early diagnosis and timely treatment improve outcomes. Many breast cancers occur in people without a known family history or another specific risk factor.
Warning signs to watch for
- A new lump or thickening in the breast or underarm, especially if it is persistent or painless
- A change in breast size, shape or appearance
- Skin changes such as dimpling, redness, pitting, thickening or a rash
- A change in the nipple, including new inversion
- Unusual nipple discharge, particularly bloody discharge
- Persistent, localized breast pain or another change that is unusual for you
Recommendations regarding breast screening differ by country and health system, but most regions begin breast cancer screening between the ages of 40 and 55. Many guidelines recommend routine mammography for women in midlife and older age groups. Talk with your healthcare provider about your local guidelines and about earlier assessment if you have increased risk.
Cervical Cancer
Constant infection with high-risk types of human papillomavirus (HPV) causes almost all cervical cancers. HPV vaccination and regular screening can prevent many cases by identifying HPV infection or precancerous changes before cancer develops.
Warning signs to watch for
- Unusual vaginal bleeding, including bleeding after sex, between periods or after menopause
- Unusual or persistent vaginal discharge
- Pelvic pain or pain during sex
Recommendations regarding cervical screening differ by country and health system. The WHO recommends cervical screening starting at age 30 for the general population, then every 5-10 years.
Do not wait for a screening appointment if you notice a new or unusual change. Most breast lumps are not caused by cancer but need medical assessment. Cervical precancers often cause no symptoms; routine screening is important. If you have a concerning symptom, contact your healthcare provider promptly.
Want more information on breast cancer? Watch Dr. Stokes’ presentation on breast cancer screening and prevention : https://magna-my.sharepoint.com/:v:/p/amy_wilds/IQD56WGj2l5ZRKaKAxPdIDxZAcZ506XwbORrY4px7GQUAEM?xsdata=MDV8MDJ8ZWxlbmEuZGF2YWtpc0BtYWduYS5jb218NWE5OWU0OTk5MTcxNGZiMjczNjkwOGRmMjU3ODMyNGR8Yzc2MDI3MGNmM2RhNGNmYTk3MzcwMzgwOGVmNTU3OWZ8MXwwfDYzOTI3MDg3MDI5NTE3MDI4N3xVbmtub3dufFRXRnBiR1pzYjNkOGV5SkZiWEIwZVUxaGNHa2lPblJ5ZFdVc0lsWWlPaUl3TGpBdU1EQXdNQ0lzSWxBaU9pSlhhVzR6TWlJc0lrRk9Jam9pVFdGcGJDSXNJbGRVSWpveWZRPT18MHx8fA%3d%3d&sdata=Q2FES1hURm5JblJXME16aDRvRGJJdnNMZlZSaVVpS0VtYWxZMGZhT01Qaz0%3d
Written by Elena Davakis, Health Promotion Coordinator
