Hi Chelbel,

A very warm welcome to our forum.

I am sorry to hear that you have found a breast lump. Unfortunately, it is impossible to say whether this is cancerous or benign until some tests are undertaken. Have you seen your GP yet? This is the first thing to do. If you explain why you need to see him/her, you will usually be given an urgent appointment. If they feel that there is a need, they will refer you to the breast clinic. It normally takes up to 2 weeks from the date of referral, to get an appointment. It is here that they will carry out tests to determine a  diagnosis. The 3 most common tests carried out are a mammogram, an ultrasound and a biopsy. The first 2 of these can identify the lump, but it is the biopsy which determines whether or not there is cancer present. It usually takes from 1-2 weeks to get the result of the biopsy.

Not all lumps are cancerous. Many turn out to be cysts or fibrous changes. It is a fact that only 2 people, out of every 10 who attend the breast clinic, will get a cancer diagnosis, so the odds are still good for you. Treatments for breast cancer have improved dramatically in recent years. I myself have had 2 bouts of breast cancer. I was first diagnosed 14 years ago and I still lead a busy and fulfilling life.

Please keep in touch and let us know how you get on. We are always here for you.

Kind regards,

Jolamine xx