What is breast cancer?

Breast cancer is cancer that starts in the breast tissue. Find out about who gets breast cancer and where it starts.

Breast cancer symptoms

Symptoms of breast cancer include a lump or thickening in the breast. Find out more about this and other possible symptoms and when you should see your GP.

Survival

Survival is generally very good for breast cancer and is continuing to improve.

Risks and causes

Read about the factors that can increase or reduce your risk of breast cancer.

Breast cancer stages, types and grades

Get information about the number and TNM staging systems and the grades and types of breast cancer.

Getting diagnosed

Find out about screening, seeing your GP and the tests you might have for breast cancer or other breast conditions.

Treatment for breast cancer

Find out about breast cancer treatments, where and how you have them, and how to cope with possible side effects.

Secondary breast cancer

Secondary breast cancer means that a cancer that began in the breast has spread to another part of the body.

Research and clinical trials

Find out about the latest UK breast cancer research and clinical trials, and how you can take part.

Living with breast cancer

See what you can do to cope with breast cancer and treatment, and the effect it has on your life and relationships.

Resources and support

Find out about organisations and resources to help you cope, and there is information about suppliers of prosthesises and bras.

Last reviewed: 
12 Mar 2021
Next review due: 
12 Mar 2024
Coronavirus and cancer

We know it’s a worrying time for people with cancer, we have information to help.

Read our information about coronavirus and cancer