Skip to Main Content

Ten Common Breast Health Concerns

UHealth Comprehensive Women’s Health Alliance

Appointments

Call or click for an in-person
or virtual visit.

Call us at
855-3-4-WOMEN (855-349-6636)
Office Hours: 8:30 am - 5:00 pm

Or

Insurance Plans

View a list of insurance plans accepted at the University of Miami Health System.

It's important for women of all ages to prioritize their breast health. To help you understand the most common breast health concerns, we've compiled a list of 10 topics. These include breast pain, lumps, cysts, cancer, and more. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, our breast health specialists are here to help.

Breast pain: Breast pain, or mastalgia, is a common complaint among women. It can be caused by a variety of factors, including hormonal changes, breast cysts, and fibrocystic breast changes. Up to 70% of women are estimated to experience breast pain at some point.

Breast lumps: Breast lumps can be caused by various factors, including cysts, fibroadenomas, and breast cancer. Up to 4 out of 5 breast lumps are estimated to be benign.

Breast cysts: These are fluid-filled sacs that can develop in the breast tissue. They are most common among women in their 40s and 50s.

Fibrocystic breast changes: These benign changes in the breast tissue can cause pain and lumps. They are most common among women in their 30s and 40s.

Nipple discharge: Nipple discharge can be caused by a variety of factors, including hormonal changes, medication, and breast cancer. Between 50 – 80% of women in their reproductive years have nipple discharge.

Breast infections: Breast infections, also known as mastitis, can occur when bacteria enter the breast tissue, causing pain, redness, and swelling. They are most common among women who are breastfeeding.

Breast cancer: Breast cancer is a serious condition that requires prompt diagnosis and treatment. It is the most common cancer among women worldwide, with over 2 million new cases diagnosed yearly.

Breast density: Breast density refers to the amount of glandular and connective tissue in the breast compared to the amount of fatty tissue. Women with dense breast tissue are at a higher risk for breast cancer.

Paget's disease of the breast: Paget's disease of the breast is a rare form of breast cancer that affects the skin of the nipple and areola and can affect other parts of the body.

Breast implants: Breast implants can cause various complications, including rupture, leakage, and scarring. In the United States, breast implants are used in over 300,000 breast augmentations and 100,000 breast reconstructions annually.

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, seeing a breast specialist for an evaluation and treatment plan is essential. Our experts work closely with breast oncologists at Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, and together, they can help diagnose the underlying condition and develop a personalized treatment plan that addresses your specific needs.

Braman Family Breast Cancer Institute at Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center

As a patient, you have seamless access to the expertise of breast oncologists and specialists at Sylvester. This ensures that you receive the highest level of care in the event of a breast cancer diagnosis.

Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center is one of only 72 NCI-designated cancer centers in the United States, specializing in treating breast cancer with the latest technology and advanced treatments. The multidisciplinary team includes experts in medical oncology, radiation oncology, surgical oncology, and more. As a result, patients experience a comprehensive approach to breast cancer treatment, which includes genetic counseling, clinical trials, and survivorship programs.

Your health matters

From routine exams to addressing specific health concerns, one of our women’s nurse coordinators can connect you
with convenient, compassionate, and expert-led care. Contact us today!