Dear Anne
I have noticed a lump under one of my nipples that is quite sore and painful. I'm only 14 but I'm so worried that I have breast cancer. Do you think this is possible? Gigi
Dear Gigi
I'm sorry you're so worried. It's quite understandable. It may comfort you to know, though, that breasts are made up of different kinds of tissues. The lump you've noticed (and well done for checking!) could be one of your milk-glands, which can be rather sore when they're developing. Or it could be an infection in one of your milk-glands, simply treated with antibiotics. Or it could be a completely harmless cyst. Or it could - though it's rather unlikely at your age - be cancer. There's only one way you'll find out, and that's by going to the doctor. Ten to one it'll turn out to be nothing to worry about. But if it does happen to be cancer, then the sooner it's identified and treated, the greater your chances of making a complete recovery without the need for a mastectomy. Though you may feel embarrassed, please don't be. Doctors are used to people going along to have their various bodily bits checked so they're used to it and will be completely impersonal about it. Why not ask your mum to go with you? Another thing: the sooner you go, the sooner your anxieties will be laid to rest. Make that appointment today! Good luck, Gigi.
