The little known symptoms for awful illness as Sarah Ferguson given diagnosis

Breast cancer hit the headlines once more this week as Sarah Ferguson, Duchess of York, revealed she has undergone an operation after being diagnosed with the condition.

The 63-year-old discovered she had an early form of the disease during a routine mammogram, according to her representatives. She reportedly left the King Edward VII Hospital in Marylebone, central London – which has treated the royal family for decades - on Sunday and is said to be recovering with her family, including ex-husband Andrew, at Windsor.

Before going to hospital, she spoke about her diagnosis on her new podcast 'Tea Talks with the Duchess and Sarah', which was released on Monday (June 26). It was reportedly recorded before her operation and had been due to air the previous Thursday, before being put off until after she was discharged.

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The duchess had no symptoms ahead of her shock diagnosis, with the cancer being found in a routine screening, reports the Mirror. Common signs include a lump on the breast, or the nipple changing in any way, the NHS says, but the cancer can also come with more subtle signs that can often be missed.

You should see a GP if you notice any of the following:

Breast pain is not usually a symptom of breast cancer, says the NHS.

It's important to be breast aware, adds the health service, so you notice any changes as soon as possible.

"Get to know what is normal for you – for instance, your breasts may look or feel different at different times of your life. This will make it easier to notice potential problems," reads NHS advice.

The surgery at the hospital was 'successful'. A spokesman for the duchess said: "Sarah, Duchess