What to know about breast cancer in men

Men have a small amount of breast tissue, so cancer can develop there. Possible signs include a firm lump, swelling, nipple inversion, discharge, skin dimpling, redness, or a sore area that does not settle. A lump or breast change can also have non-cancerous causes; it cannot be diagnosed by appearance or touch alone.

Assessment may include a clinical examination, breast imaging, and a biopsy if needed. The tissue result identifies the cancer and may show features that guide treatment. Doctors may discuss surgery, radiotherapy, hormone treatment, chemotherapy, targeted medicines, or other options according to the findings.

Book a medical appointment for a persistent lump, nipple discharge, new nipple inversion, or a skin change. Record when you noticed it, whether it is changing, and any pain or discharge. Mention family history of breast or ovarian cancer, previous chest radiation, hormone conditions, liver disease, or medicines that affect hormones.

If tests identify cancer, ask what the results mean, whether lymph nodes need assessment, and how treatment could affect work, body image, sexual health, and emotional wellbeing. Take someone you trust to appointments if that helps you remember information and consider the options.

Arrange prompt assessment for a breast or armpit lump, nipple discharge especially if bloody, a newly inverted nipple, or persistent skin thickening, dimpling, redness, or ulceration. Seek urgent help for uncontrolled bleeding, severe infection symptoms, rapidly worsening swelling, or severe pain. Do not delay evaluation because breast cancer in men may first appear as a small local change.

Ask: What could explain this change? Which imaging test is suitable? Would a biopsy be needed? If cancer is confirmed, what are its features and extent? What treatments are available? How might treatment affect appearance, movement, hormones, and sexual health?