Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers affecting women, and the risk increases with age. While some breast changes are a normal part of aging, new or unusual changes in the breast, nipple, skin, or underarm should always be discussed with a healthcare provider.
Recognizing the early signs of breast cancer in seniors can help lead to earlier diagnosis and, when cancer is found early, more treatment options.
For older adults, regular conversations with a primary care provider and recommended breast cancer screenings are an important part of staying proactive about health.
What Are the Early Signs of Breast Cancer in Seniors?
The early signs of breast cancer can vary from person to person. Some people may have no noticeable symptoms at all, which is one reason regular screening is important.
Possible warning signs of breast cancer include:
- A new lump or thickening in the breast or underarm
- A change in the size or shape of the breast
- Swelling in part or all of the breast
- Skin changes, such as dimpling, puckering, redness, or irritation
- Changes to the nipple, including inversion
- Unusual nipple discharge
- Persistent pain or discomfort in the breast or nipple
- Swelling around the underarm or collarbone
Not every breast change means cancer. Many breast lumps and other changes are caused by conditions that are not cancerous. However, any new or unexplained change should be evaluated by a healthcare professional.
1. A New Lump or Thickening
A new lump or area of thickened tissue in the breast or underarm can be a possible sign of breast cancer.
Breast tissue naturally changes with age, which can make it difficult to know what is normal. If you notice a new lump, thickening, or area that feels different from the surrounding tissue, talk with your provider.
2. Changes in Breast Size or Shape
A noticeable change in the size, shape, or appearance of one breast can be another warning sign.
Pay attention to changes that are new or unusual for you. Your provider can help determine whether additional testing, such as a mammogram or ultrasound, is needed.
3. Skin Changes
Breast cancer can sometimes cause changes to the skin of the breast. These may include:
- Dimpling or puckering
- Redness
- Swelling
- Thickening
- Irritation or changes in texture
Some skin changes may have other causes, but it's important to have persistent or unexplained changes evaluated.
4. Nipple Changes
Changes involving the nipple can sometimes be a warning sign of breast cancer.
Contact your healthcare provider if you notice:
- A nipple becoming newly inverted
- Unusual nipple discharge, particularly if it occurs without squeezing the nipple
- Changes in the appearance of the nipple or surrounding skin
- Persistent irritation or changes that are unusual for you
5. Persistent Breast or Nipple Pain
Breast pain is not usually the only sign of breast cancer, and many common conditions can cause breast discomfort. However, persistent or unexplained breast or nipple pain should be discussed with your healthcare provider, especially if it occurs along with another breast change.
6. Swelling in the Underarm or Near the Collarbone
Breast cancer can sometimes affect nearby lymph nodes, which may cause swelling or a lump in the underarm or area near the collarbone.
If you notice unexplained swelling or a new lump in these areas, make an appointment with your provider for an evaluation.
Do Women Over 65 Still Need Mammograms?
Age alone does not determine whether an older woman should continue having mammograms. Screening decisions should take into account overall health, life expectancy, personal preferences, breast cancer risk, and the potential benefits and risks of screening.
Because screening recommendations can vary based on your individual health and risk factors, talk with your healthcare provider about the schedule that is right for you.
What Is a Mammogram?
A mammogram is a low-dose X-ray of the breast used to look for breast cancer.
Screening mammograms are used to look for signs of breast cancer in people who do not have breast symptoms. They can identify changes that may be too small to feel.
A diagnostic mammogram may be recommended when a person has a breast symptom or an abnormal finding on a screening mammogram. Diagnostic imaging may include additional mammogram views and, depending on the situation, other tests such as an ultrasound.
Regular screening can help detect breast cancer earlier, when treatment may be more effective.
Who May Need More Frequent Breast Cancer Screening?
Some women have a higher-than-average risk of developing breast cancer and may need additional screening.
According to the American Cancer Society, women at high risk may be advised to have both a breast MRI and a mammogram every year, typically beginning around age 30.
Factors that may increase breast cancer risk include:
- Having a known BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene mutation
- Having a close family member with a BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutation
- Having a calculated lifetime breast cancer risk of approximately 20% to 25% or greater
- Having received radiation therapy to the chest before age 30
If you have a personal or family history of breast cancer or another risk factor, talk with your healthcare provider about whether you need a different screening plan.
When Should You See a Doctor About a Breast Change?
You should contact your healthcare provider if you notice a new or unusual change in your breast, nipple, skin, or underarm—even if you recently had a normal mammogram.
Schedule an appointment if you notice:
- A new breast or underarm lump
- A change in breast size or shape
- Skin dimpling, puckering, redness, or swelling
- A newly inverted nipple
- Unusual nipple discharge
- Persistent or unexplained breast pain
- A new lump or swelling near the collarbone
Don't wait for your next scheduled screening to mention a new symptom.
Breast Cancer Screening and Early Detection
Breast cancer screening is an important part of preventive care, particularly as you get older.
But screening is only one part of early detection. Knowing what is normal for your body and reporting changes to your healthcare provider can also help identify potential problems sooner.
If you notice something different, don't panic—but don't ignore it, either. Many breast changes are not cancer. Your provider can help determine what is causing the change and whether additional testing is needed.
Early Detection Starts With Your Primary Care Team
Taking care of your health as you age means staying current with recommended screenings and talking openly with your healthcare provider about changes in your health.
At VIPcare, we believe primary care should give you the time and support you need to ask questions, discuss concerns, and stay on top of preventive care.
If you notice a change in your breast or have questions about breast cancer screening, talk with your healthcare provider about the next steps.
Your health matters at every age, and early conversations can make a difference.
Frequently Asked Questions About Breast Cancer in Seniors
What are the first signs of breast cancer in older women?
The first signs can include a new lump or thickening in the breast or underarm, changes in breast size or shape, skin dimpling or redness, nipple changes, unusual discharge, or persistent breast or nipple discomfort. Some people have no symptoms, which is why recommended screening is important.
Is breast cancer more common in older women?
Yes. The risk of developing breast cancer generally increases with age, making age an important risk factor. Regular conversations with a healthcare provider can help older women understand their individual risk and screening options.
Should women over 65 get mammograms?
Many women over 65 may benefit from continuing mammograms, but the decision should be based on overall health, life expectancy, breast cancer risk, and personal preferences. Talk with your healthcare provider about whether continued screening is right for you.
Can breast pain be a sign of breast cancer?
Breast pain is not usually the only sign of breast cancer, and there are many noncancerous causes of breast pain. However, persistent or unexplained pain should be discussed with a healthcare provider, particularly if it occurs with another breast change.
What should I do if I find a lump in my breast?
Contact your healthcare provider and schedule an evaluation. Do not assume that a lump is cancer, because many breast lumps are benign. Your provider can determine whether additional testing is needed.
Can you have breast cancer without symptoms?
Yes. Breast cancer may not cause noticeable symptoms, particularly in its early stages. That's why recommended breast cancer screening can be an important part of early detection.
