October is recognized worldwide as Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a time to discuss prevention, treatment, and support for women affected by the disease. Specialists at the Kazakh Research Institute of Oncology and Radiology (KazNIIOiR) have reminded the public which changes in the breast and underarm area should prompt a visit to a doctor, according to infohub.kz.

A lump or thickening in the breast or underarm area warrants attention first and foremost — especially if it has appeared recently, persists, and does not cause pain.

Changes in the shape and size of the breast should also raise concern. In particular, if one breast has become noticeably different from the other or an unusual asymmetry has appeared that was not there before.

Nipple discharge outside of breastfeeding also requires attention. It is especially important to consult a specialist if the discharge is bloody and occurs without squeezing.

Another possible sign is retraction of the nipple or skin. A change in the position of the nipple, such as it beginning to turn inward, may be a cause for concern. A dimple or other change in the skin's texture around the nipple should also be noted.

Unusual swelling of part or all of the breast and a sudden increase in its size should not be ignored. Such changes can occur even without a noticeable lump.

Attention should also be paid to the condition of the skin of the breast, nipple, or areola. Such changes include redness, thickening, dimpling, peeling, and others.

In Kazakhstan, women aged 40 to 76 receive free breast cancer screening once every two years under the guaranteed volume of free medical care (GOBMP), in years when they reach an even age: 40, 42, 44, 46, and so on up to 76. The main screening method is two-view mammography. It can be done at the polyclinic where you are registered.

Having one of the listed signs does not mean a person definitely has cancer. Such symptoms can also occur for other reasons, so it is best to discuss any changes with a doctor.

KazNIIOiR also announced that an open house day will be held on October 31, 2026, at polyclinics and oncology centers. Typically, free screenings and lectures are offered on such days. The time and conditions for participation should be confirmed separately with your medical organization.

Earlier, Kursiv Health wrote about the "Pink October" run in Pavlodar: hundreds of people ran several kilometers in support of women with breast cancer.