Breast cancer warning signs as Hollyoaks star Ali Bastian tells fans of shock diagnosis

Breast cancer is the most common type of cancer for women in Scotland with one in eight developing the disease during their lifetime.

According to the Scottish Public Health Observatory, the country sees around 4,200 new diagnoses of the disease in females each year, accounting for 28.0% of all cancers diagnosed, excluding non-melanoma skin cancer.

The first typical symptom of breast cancer most women notice is a lump or an area of thickened tissue in their breast. Although 90 per cent of breast lumps turn out non-cancerous, it's always safest to have them checked by your doctor.

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Eight out of ten women are diagnosed with breast cancer over the age of 50 with risk increasing substantially with age although rarer cases can occur in younger women too.

Those with close relatives who've suffered from breast cancer or ovarian cancer may also be at higher risk of developing the disease but most cases aren't hereditary, the NHS Inform states.

Men can also be diagnosed with the disease although it is not as common. You can read more about the symptoms of male breast cancer here.

Hollyoaks actress Ali Bastian, 42, has revealed that she has received a shock stage two breast cancer diagnosis and is currently undergoing weekly chemotherapy sessions. The British star is set to have a mastectomy and radiotherapy early next year.

Spotting the signs of disease early is crucial and is more likely to result in a chance of treatment and a successful recovery.

There are a number of signs which can be recognised according to the NHS who advise speaking with a medical professional if you notice any of the following symptoms:

• A new lump or area of thickened tissue in your breast that was not there before

• A change in size or shape of one or both breasts

• A discharge of fluid from either of your nipples

• A lump or swelling in either of your armpits

• Change in the look or feel of your skin, such as puckering or dimpling, a rash or redness

• A rash (like eczema), crusting, scaly or itchy skin or redness on or around your nipple

• Change in the appearance of your nipple, such as becoming sunken into your breast

• Pain in your breast or armpit which does not go away – breast pain that comes and goes is usually not a symptom of breast cancer

It's important to remember that having any of the above symptoms does not necessarily mean you have breast cancer. Medics have advised it's wise to become aware of what is normal for your body so if things do change you are be able to spot anything strange.

For example, knowing the shape, size and texture of your breasts is important as well as attending routine breast screening appointments when invited.

If you are concerned about any changes in your breast, do not hesitate to contact your GP.

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