When we think of breast cancer, we often think of women, but breast cancer can affect men too, so awareness is important for everyone.
Breast cancer develops when cells in the breast begin to grow abnormally. Although it is much more common in women, men also have breast tissue and can develop breast cancer. One of the most important messages we can share is that knowing what is normal for your body, recognising changes and seeking medical advice early can make a real difference.
Whether you are a man or a woman, it is important to be aware of changes in the breasts or surrounding areas. Take note of the following:
- A new lump or thickening in the breast, chest or armpit.
- A change in the size, shape or appearance of a breast.
- Skin changes, such as dimpling, puckering, redness or skin that resembles the texture of an orange peel.
- A nipple that turns inward when it was previously pointing outward.
- Nipple discharge, particularly if it is bloody or occurs without squeezing.
- A persistent rash, scaling or changes around the nipple.
- Persistent, unexplained pain in one area of the breast or chest.
Not every lump or change is cancerous.
Many breast changes have benign causes. However, it is important not to dismiss a change simply because it is painless or because you feel otherwise healthy. It’s important to remember that breast cancer does not always cause a lump, and it can occur without any pain. If you notice a new or unusual change, have it assessed by a healthcare professional rather than waiting for your next routine screening appointment.
Although it is less common, men can develop breast cancer.
Because many men do not realise this, changes in the chest area can sometimes be overlooked or medical advice delayed.
Men should look for a firm lump, often near the nipple, nipple retraction, discharge, skin changes or a lump in the armpit.
Risk can increase with age, a strong family history, certain inherited genetic variants such as BRCA2, and some hormonal or medical conditions.
Having a risk factor does not mean someone will develop breast cancer, but likewise, men and women without known risk factors can also be affected.
There is no guaranteed way to prevent breast cancer, but we can take steps that support overall health which may reduce our risk.
Maintaining a healthy, sustainable lifestyle with regular physical activity, a balanced diet rich in vegetables, fruit, whole grains, legumes and other nutritious foods, and maintaining a healthy weight can all contribute to better health. After menopause, excess body fat is associated with an increased risk of breast cancer, so maintaining a healthy body weight can help.
Things we can limit or avoid include:
Alcohol consumption is linked to an increased risk of breast cancer, and risk generally rises with greater intake. Limiting alcohol can help to reducing this risk.
Smoking has many harmful effects on health and is best avoided.
It is important to understand your family history.
If close relatives have had breast cancer, particularly at a young age, or if there is a history of ovarian, pancreatic or certain prostate cancers, discuss this with your healthcare professional. Genetic counselling may be appropriate for some families.
We need to be informed about hormones.
Some forms of menopausal hormone therapy, particularly combined oestrogen-progestogen therapy, can increase breast cancer risk, depending on the type and duration of use. This does not mean everyone should avoid hormone therapy. Sometimes the benefits of hormone therapy outweigh the risks so it is important that decisions be individualised with a qualified healthcare professional, who can weigh benefits, risks and personal medical history.
There are a few screening options available.
A mammogram is the widely accepted screening option, but breast sonars and thermograms are also options that can be considered. People at increased risk may need a different screening plan.
Self-examination should be part of our daily routine, but it is also to become familiar with the usual appearance and feel of our breasts or chest so that if there are any changes, we can notice them sooner.
Breast awareness should not replace screening, and a normal self-check cannot rule out cancer. If you notice a change, arrange an assessment even if your last mammogram was normal.
Know what’s normal for you. Notice changes. Act early. It’s better to check and there’s nothing to worry about than to leave something that does become a problem.
Listen to my interview with Anton Brink from Radio Cape Pulpit on 22 October 2026 to learn more. Listen to my next interview on Thursday at 7.45am.