Male Breast Cancer Symptoms, Signs and Self-Exam

What are some of the symptoms for male breast cancer? Male breast cancer symptoms are no different than they are for women. What is different is men need to be aware they can be diagnosed with breast cancer and know any symptom, needs to be checked. Breast lumps, bumps or breast soreness may not be just because of a hard workout in the gym or other heavy lifting, etc.

• Mass located under the nipple

• Inverted or retraction of nipple

• Nipple discharge- may be bloody or clear

• Skin dimpling or puckering

• Itching of the nipple area

• Redness or scaling of the nipple

Other symptoms may include a lump or swelling under the arm in the lymph node area as well as the collar bone. A common cause and diagnosis for men with these symptoms can be gynecomastia which is an enlargement of breast tissue and is not related to cancer.

It is even more important for to learn how to perform a male self-breast examination check since mammograms and ultrasound are not commonly prescribed.

As with a female, one must first become familiar with their own breast in order to notice when changes take place. Follow below to learn how to self-check yourself.

How to Perform a Male Self Breast Exam

1. Begin by standing in front of a mirror with your arms on your hips to tighten your chest muscles and inspect yourself. Watch for any changes such as dimpling, swelling and areas around the nipple or if the nipple becomes inverted. Raise your arms above your head and continue to examine your breast and arm pit areas.

2. Move around the breast in a circular motion with the fingertips. You can perform this in either an up and down method, a circular or a wedge pattern, but try to be consistent using the same method each time. In addition, check the nipple area for any discharge. Complete on both breasts.

3. In addition to standing, you can also examine your breasts lying down. To do so, place a pillow under your right shoulder and bend your right arm over your head. Then, with the fingertips on your left hand, begin checking by pressing all areas of the breast and armpit. Once completed on the right, move the pillow to under your left shoulder and repeat the same process.

In addition you can request to have your physician perform a breast check during your annual physical. A male can get a mammogram. Size doesn't matter!

Often, men delay going to their healthcare professional early but earlier detection of breast cancer can make the difference in saving a life!

For more information and to learn more about male breast cancer symptoms, visit

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Editor; Vicki Singer Wolf, Co-founder