Lucy Davis Shares Her Breast Cancer Story: Warning Signs Women Should Know

Actress Lucy Davis, known for her role as Dawn Tinsley in the U.K. version of The Office, recently shared that she has stage 4 breast cancer that has spread to her spine, right hip, and ribs. Davis said she initially noticed a small, hard spot in her breast rather than what she considered a traditional lump. Her experience is a reminder that breast cancer doesn’t always present in an obvious way.

Breast Cancer Warning Signs to Know

A new lump or mass is the most common symptom of breast cancer, but it’s not the only warning sign. Other breast cancer symptoms can include:

• A new hard or thickened area in the breast or underarm
• Swelling in part or all of the breast
• A change in the size or shape of the breast
• Skin dimpling or an appearance similar to an orange peel
• Red, flaky, irritated, or thickened skin on the breast or nipple
• A nipple that turns inward
• Nipple discharge that isn’t breast milk, including bloody discharge
• New or ongoing breast or nipple pain
• A breast that becomes unusually red or warm

Some changes may be subtle, which is why knowing how your breasts normally look and feel can help you recognize something that’s different.

Don’t Wait to Get Checked

Not every breast change means cancer. Cysts, hormonal changes, and other non-cancerous breast conditions can cause lumps, pain, or changes in breast tissue. Still, a new or unusual change should be evaluated by your doctor rather than ignored.

Regular breast cancer screenings are also important because breast cancer can develop without noticeable symptoms. Mammograms can help detect cancer before symptoms appear, when it may be easier to treat.

Davis’ message is simple: know your body, pay attention to changes, and get them checked. When it comes to breast health, you don’t have to determine whether a change is serious on your own. Your healthcare team can help you understand what’s happening and when l testing is needed.

Learn More About Breast Health

If you have questions about breast cancer screening, breast health, or a recent change, Jackson Health System offers comprehensive breast imaging, diagnostic services, genetic counseling, treatment planning, and cancer care.

Learn more about Jackson’s breast health services.

Image credit: Peabody Awards, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons