What is Breast Cancer?

Breast cancer is a malignant tumor that starts in the cells of the breast. A malignant tumor is a group of cancer cells that can grow into (invade) surrounding tissues or spread (metastasize) to distant areas of the body. The disease occurs almost entirely in women, but men can also get it.

Symptoms of Breast Cancer in Women

Breast cancer can be present without any noticeable symptoms, but signs to look for include:

• Lump
• Thickening
• Palpable abnormality
• Unusual nipple discharge
• Skin or nipple retraction/change
• Any pain that isn’t chronic or cyclical

Symptoms of Breast Cancer in Men

Symptoms of breast cancer to look for in men include:

• Lump
• Swelling
• Nipple discharge or pain

Learn more about breast disease in men.

Learn more about breast self-awareness and the steps to breast self-examination.