Breast cancer awareness is not only about attending routine screenings. Recognising unusual changes in the breast and seeking medical advice promptly are also important, according to specialists at Grupo Policlínica de Ibiza, who are urging women not to wait for a routine screening appointment if they develop symptoms or have significant family risk factors.

The advice was highlighted in a report published on Monday, 19 October, during Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Dr José Torres, a radiologist in the group's Breast Unit, stressed the importance of early assessment and explained that breast cancer can also affect younger women.

Breast Cancer Remains the Most Frequently Diagnosed Cancer in Women in Spain

According to the 2026 report Las cifras del cáncer en España, produced by the Spanish Society of Medical Oncology (SEOM) and the Spanish Network of Cancer Registries (REDECAN), an estimated 38,318 new breast cancer cases will be diagnosed in Spain in 2026.

The figure is a national estimate, rather than a final count of confirmed cases. It nevertheless underlines the importance of prevention, access to screening and timely medical assessment when symptoms appear.

Screening participation is another area of concern. Ministry of Health figures show that the proportion of women aged 50 to 69 who reported having a mammogram within the previous two years fell from 81.5% in 2017 to 68% in 2023, the latest figures cited in the report.

These figures measure reported participation in screening, rather than the number of women who have or have not developed breast cancer.

Warning Signs That Should Prompt Medical Advice

Grupo Policlínica's Breast Unit highlights several changes that should be assessed by a healthcare professional. These include:

• A new lump in the breast or armpit.

• Changes in the skin of the breast, such as dimpling, redness or thickening.

• Changes to the nipple, including retraction, deviation or eczema-like changes.

• Spontaneous nipple discharge, particularly if it contains blood.

• Changes in the size or shape of a breast.

• Unusual swelling, irritation or other changes that persist or concern the person experiencing them.

These symptoms do not automatically mean that someone has breast cancer. Many breast changes have other causes, but a medical assessment is important to establish what is happening.

Dr Torres emphasises that women should not wait until they reach the usual screening age if they develop concerning symptoms or have significant family history involving breast or ovarian cancer.

Breast Cancer Can Also Affect Younger Women

Breast cancer is often associated with older age, but it can also occur in younger adults.

The specialists at Grupo Policlínica are encouraging women not to dismiss unusual symptoms simply because they are below the age traditionally associated with routine screening.

Family history is also relevant. Women should share information about breast and ovarian cancer among close relatives with their doctor, who can assess whether additional monitoring or an individual screening plan may be appropriate.

A person's screening needs can differ according to age, family history and other risk factors. Anyone concerned about their personal risk should discuss it with a healthcare professional rather than relying on a general age threshold alone.

Spain Is Expanding Its Breast Cancer Screening Programme

Spain's national screening policy changed in 2026. In May, the Public Health Commission approved an expansion of the target age range from 50 to 69 to 45 to 74 years, with mammograms planned every two years under the expanded programme.

The change is being introduced progressively, meaning implementation may vary during the transition. Women should check the arrangements applicable to their autonomous community and follow advice from their healthcare provider.

Screening is intended for people who do not have symptoms. Anyone who notices a suspicious change should seek medical assessment rather than waiting for their next routine mammogram.

Early Assessment and Individualised Care Matter

Advances in medical imaging and diagnostic techniques help clinicians investigate suspicious findings and determine what further tests or treatment may be needed.

Grupo Policlínica de Ibiza highlights the role of imaging technologies, including PET/CT and SPECT-CT, within its diagnostic and treatment services. The appropriate investigation depends on the individual clinical situation and should be determined by the medical team.

The central message from the specialists is straightforward: know what is normal for your body, pay attention to unusual changes and seek medical advice when something concerns you.

Breast awareness does not replace professional assessment or recommended screening. Prompt consultation can help ensure that any concerning change is investigated without unnecessary delay.