Breast Cancer in Men

While breast cancer in men is very rare, it is something which can occur.

Breast cancer in men is cancer that starts in the small amount of breast tissue.

Most men who get breast cancer are over 60, although younger men can be affected.

The most common symptom is a lump in the chest area which is often painless.

Other symptoms of male breast cancer may include:

• Liquid, sometimes called discharge, that comes from the nipple without squeezing and which may be blood-stained

• A tender or inverted (pulled in) nipple

• Ulcers (sores) on the chest or nipple area

• Swelling of the chest area and occasionally the lymph nodes under the arm

If you notice a change to your breast tissue or nipple, see your GP as soon as you can. You should also report any changes on the chest wall up to the collarbone or in in the armpit.

Men’s breast tissue can also become enlarged because of a benign (not cancer) condition called gynaecomastia which can also lead to the enlargement of breast tissue or nipple.