Breast Pain as a Warning Sign: Katie Thurston’s Journey with Breast Cancer
For many women, breast pain is a common and often minor complaint, but for The Bachelorette alum Katie Thurston, it turned out to be a critical warning sign she nearly overlooked. The 34-year-old reality star recently opened up about her breast cancer diagnosis, sharing how she initially dismissed a small, painful lump as either premenstrual syndrome (PMS) or muscle soreness from working out. “Went to the doc thinking it was going to be nothing. I was wrong,” she wrote in an Instagram Q&A. Her experience highlights how easily breast pain can be misattributed to less serious issues, even though it can sometimes signal something far more significant.
Understanding Breast Pain and Its Link to Breast Cancer
Breast pain is a common experience for many women. According to experts, it’s usually not a cause for concern and is often linked to hormonal fluctuations, medications, benign cysts, or even a poorly fitting bra. However, while rare, breast pain can sometimes be a sign of something more serious. Dr. Kazuaki Takabe, clinical chief of breast surgery at Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, notes that about 1% of women are diagnosed with breast cancer after experiencing pain. Additionally, women who have already been diagnosed with breast cancer are more likely to report pain during treatment, with approximately 15% experiencing discomfort.
When Breast Pain Should Raise Concern
For patients who do experience pain, it’s often linked to the size and location of the tumor. Dr. Richard J. Bleicher, chief of the division of breast surgery at Fox Chase Cancer Center, explains that larger tumors can impinge on nerve, muscle, or bone structures, causing discomfort. Even small tumors, however, can result in pain if they press on a nerve or muscle. Certain types of breast cancer, such as inflammatory breast cancer—a rare and aggressive form—are more likely to present with pain, along with swelling and skin discoloration. While most breast cancers are asymptomatic and detected through routine screening, pain can sometimes be the first noticeable symptom.
The Importance of Early Detection
Breast cancer is the second most common cancer in U.S. women, with one in eight expected to be diagnosed in their lifetime. According to the American Cancer Society (ACS), an estimated 316,950 new cases of invasive breast cancer will be diagnosed in women in 2025, along with 2,800 cases in men. Early detection is crucial for improving survival rates. When breast cancer is caught in its localized stage, before it spreads beyond the breast, the survival rate is an impressive 99%. However, once the cancer spreads to lymph nodes or other parts of the body, survival rates drop significantly. As Dr. Katherine Kopkash, an oncoplastic surgeon, emphasizes, “Early detection is key. Stage 0 and 1 breast cancer is totally treatable and curable with a very low risk of recurrence.”
Screening and Self-Awareness: Key Tools in the Fight Against Breast Cancer
The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommends that women at average risk for breast cancer begin getting mammograms every two years starting at age 40. Women with a family history of breast cancer, genetic mutations, or other high-risk factors should work with their doctor to develop a personalized screening plan. While routine breast self-exams are not typically recommended as the primary screening method, many doctors encourage women to become familiar with their breasts and report any noticeable changes. Dr. Natalie Klar, a breast oncologist at NYU Langone’s Perlmutter Cancer Center, notes that most breast cancers are asymptomatic and diagnosed through imaging, but when symptoms do appear, they often involve changes such as lumps, nipple discharge, or new pain.
Taking Action: What Women Should Do If They Experience Breast Pain
If a woman experiences breast pain that doesn’t resolve within a few weeks or is particularly severe, she should consult her doctor. Dr. Tahereh Soleimani, a surgical oncologist at Indiana University Health’s Simon Cancer Center, advises that imaging tests, such as mammograms or ultrasounds, are often used to rule out serious issues. While breast pain is rarely a sign of cancer, it’s always better to err on the side of caution. As Katie Thurston’s story shows, even young, healthy women can be diagnosed with breast cancer. By staying vigilant, advocating for themselves, and following screening guidelines, women can take proactive steps to protect their health and ensure the best possible outcomes if cancer is detected.
