Wellness

Breast Cancer Early Signs: When Should You Get a Mammography Test

Dr. Kanika Sharma

31 August 2026


Written By:

Dr. Kanika Sharma

Consultant - Medical Oncology

Sohana Hospital, Mohali.

Experience: 10+ Years

Speciality: - Medical Oncology

 

Published: 

Last Updated:  

 

Breast cancer is one of highest causes of death among women, and should be treated, and detected as soon as possible. A mammography can help with the right diagnosis, so that proper treatment can be seeked and went through to get rid of the cancer. In this blog we talk about breast cancer early signs, what is breast cancer, what are the causes of breast cancer, what is the best treatment for breast cancer, and how can Sohana hospital help with breast cancer. 

What is Breast Cancer?

Breast cancer is a disease where cells in the breast grow out of control and form a tumor, most often starting in the milk ducts or milk glands. It mostly affects women, but men can get it too. Main Types of breast cancer include In-situ, and invasive, and have their own treatments personalized for everyone according to their lifestyles, and stage. Breast Cancer Treatment can help with all things related to the treatment of breast cancer. 

 

 

What are the early signs of breast cancer?

Many early changes are painless, making regular self-checks and medical screenings vital for early detection. Breast cancer can be treated if the early signs are diagnosed and treated with the right guidance by Breast Cancer Treatment. Common physical changes include 

  • A hard, painless, or tender knot in the breast tissue or under the armpit area.

  • Dimpling, puckering, or skin that looks and feels like an orange peel. 

  • Unexplained redness, pinkness, dark patches, or a persistent rash on the breast or nipple.

  • Fluid leaking from the nipple other than breast milk, especially if it is clear or bloody.

What are the causes of breast cancer?

There are many causes of breast cancer, and is mostly caused by harmful DNA mutations that make normal breast cells grow out of control and form tumors. Other genetic and biological  factors include age, family history, inherited genes,and hormone exposure. Lifestyle and external factors include 

  • Being obese or lacking physical activity after menopause raises risk.

  • Regular drinking and tobacco use link to higher rates.

  • Prior radiation therapy to the chest area during youth.

Why should one get a Mammography Done?

A Mammography is helpful in having breast cancer detected early, check for breast lumps, and lower the risk of dying from the disease. Breast Cancer Treatment can help with the right diagnosis, and treatment through a mammography, so that you don't end up delaying the whole process and get the right treatment as early as possible. Its Diagnostic Uses include Investigating new issues like pain, skin dimpling, nipple discharge, or a new lump, and Compares yearly images to spot subtle changes in breast tissue over time. 

How can Sohana hospital help with detection of breast cancer?

Sohana hospital has a wide range of treatments available for breast cancer. They provide top-notch excellence in cancer care year after year with world class experts within easy access. Chemotherapy for breast cancer is the best Breast Cancer Treatment. This systemic treatment delivered via an IV or pills lowers recurrence risks or shrink tumors. Chemotherapy remains a top choice of cancer treatment for urological cancers, gynecological cancers, head & neck cancers and more.

  • Treatment is typically delivered in cycles lasting two to three weeks, combining active treatment days with rest periods, over a total duration of three to six months.

  • Oral Medications are taken as pills or capsules at home for specific drug regimens.

  • These are given either before surgery to shrink tumors or after surgery to kill remaining cells. 

Frequently Asked Questions 

How early does a mammogram detect breast cancer?

A mammogram can detect breast cancer early, up to three years before it can be felt by hand and early stages can be treated well in time. Early detection can help in finding cancer early and raises the 5-year relative survival rate. 

 

How can Sohana hospital help with breast cancer?

Sohana hospital; has a wide range of treatments for breast cancer. Their team consists of multidisciplinary oncologists, onco-surgeons, radiation therapists, radiologists working together to deliver personalized treatment for women dealing with breast cancer.

 

What are the signs of stage 1 breast cancer on a mammogram?

On a mammogram, stage 1 breast cancer typically appears as a small, dense white mass, a cluster of fine microcalcifications, or an area of architectural distortion. Key mammographic features that indicate breast cancer are spiculated or irregular mass, microcalcifications, and architectural distortion. 

 

How does your body feel when you have breast cancer?

Physical sensations or changes can include a new lump, skin dimpling, or localized heaviness. Local physical sensations include heaviness or aching, and underarm tenderness. Systemic and Advanced Feelings look like profound fatigue, bone pain, and general wellness. 

 

At what stage does breast cancer start to hurt?

Breast cancer typically does not cause pain in its early stages. When pain does occur, it is usually linked to advanced stages, large tumors, or specific aggressive types. Early Stages are usually not painful and do not cause any significant harm except for signs like pressure and pain in the joints at later stages. 

 

Medically Reviewed By:

Dr. Sonia Dhaka

Sohana Hospital, Mohali.

 

Credentials of the Author:

-DNB Medical Oncology

-16+ Years of Clinical Experience

-Specialist in Cancer Diagnostics, Treatment & Prevention

 



Written and Verified by:

Dr. Kanika Sharma

Exp. 15 Years

Consultant General Surgery