Most breast lumps are benign and are not cancer. Common causes of benign breast lumps are cysts (sacs of fluid which build up in the breast tissue) or fibroadenomas (solid tumours made up of fibrous and glandular tissue). Benign breast lumps are easily treated.

If you notice a lump or are aware of any new change in your breast, visit your doctor straight away.

Any different or unusual change in the breast should always be examined by a doctor. This is because even though most breast lumps are benign, they still need to be checked carefully to rule out the possibility of cancer. Also, if it is a cancer, the earlier the treatment is given, the more likely it is to be successful.