Men too can get breast cancer: 5 warning signs and symptoms that should not be missed

Breast cancer is most often found in women, but men too can get breast cancer toocan develop the disease. Though rare, male breast cancer accounts male breast cancer accounts for a small percentage of cases. TheAmerican Cancer Society(ACS) noted that about 2,800 men will be diagnosed with breast cancer and approximately 510 will die from the disease in 2024. What makes the disease more crucial in men is that they are more likely to be diagnosed with advanced (regional- or distant-stage) disease (48% versus 31%) compared to women. The absence of screening, delayed diagnosis, and lack of awareness are the reasons. The 5-year relative breast cancer survival rate is lower in men than women overall (84% versus 91%, respectively) and for every stage of diagnosis, as per ACS. Awareness of the warning signs is critical for early detection and improved treatment outcomes. Here are five symptoms of breast cancer in men that should not be ignored.

One of the most common symptoms of male breast cancer is a lump or thickening in the breast tissue. Unlike women, men typically have less breast tissue. This makes the lumps easier to notice. If you find any new mass in the chest area, especially if it persists for more than a few weeks, it is important to talk to your doctor.

Nipple discharge is a red flag. Liquid leaking from your nipples, which may have blood in it, is a warning sign that shouldn’t be taken lightly. Nipple discharge in men is rare, but if you notice this sign, it is important to consult a doctor. Crusting or ulceration around the nipple may also suggest a rare form of breast cancer. Changes in the nipple should not be dismissed.

Any changes on or around the chest skin can signal trouble. Redness, scaling, or dimpling, sometimes described as an “orange peel” texture, may be a warning sign. These changes can occur with or without a lump. Most men tend to dismiss skin changes as irritation or infection; however, if these signs persist, it is important to get it checked.

If you notice any changes in the size or shape of the chest, it should not be ignored. Swelling in the chest, or nearby lymph nodes under the arm or collarbone, may lead to a change in shape or size. Though pain is less common, some men report tenderness or discomfort. Swelling without an obvious cause, like injury, should be checked.

Losing weight without trying is a common sign of cancer. When the above signs and symptoms are accompanied by unexplained weight loss, fatigue, or weakness, it could indicate breast cancer. If you have a family history of breast cancer, genetic mutations like BRCA2, or conditions like Klinefelter syndrome, it is important not to dismiss the signs. Also, know that these symptoms can happen with other conditions that are not cancer. If you notice any of these symptoms or changes, consult your doctor right away.