Nipple Discharge, Breast Lumps Can Be Warning Signs Of Breast Cancer — Oncology Nurse
Oncology Nurse Specialist at the Manhyia District Hospital’s Well Woman Unit, Hilda Nkrumah, has urged women to seek medical attention when they notice unusual changes in their breasts, including nipple discharge, breast lumps and changes in the skin.
Speaking in an interview with Kofi Boakye on Nkwantannanso on Opemsuo Radio, she said women should know what is normal for their breasts and report any unusual changes to a health professional for examination.
She explained that nipple discharge can be associated with breast cancer, although the presence of discharge alone does not mean a woman has the disease.
According to her, women who are not breastfeeding normally should not have nipple discharge, although hormonal imbalances can sometimes cause white discharge.
She noted that brown or bloody discharge could indicate an abnormality in the breast that requires further medical assessment.
“There are some people with hormonal imbalances who may have white nipple discharge. However, when the discharge is associated with breast cancer, it may appear brown or bloody, which could mean that there is something inside the breast that needs to be checked,” she said.
Ms Nkrumah also identified a visible breast lump, changes in skin texture, an orange-peel appearance, pain in the armpit and nipple retraction as other signs women should watch for.
She added that skin dimpling, changes in the direction of the nipple, irritation, sores, and an enlarged or painful nipple could also indicate an abnormality that needs to be examined.
She therefore encouraged women who notice any of these changes to visit a health facility rather than ignoring them or attempting to diagnose themselves.
“Know what is normal for your breasts, so if you notice anything abnormal, visit the hospital and allow a health professional to examine you,” she advised.
BACKGROUND
October is observed as Breast Cancer Awareness Month, with health authorities using the period to promote awareness, early detection and timely treatment. In Ghana, the 2026 National Pink Month is being observed under the theme “Early Action, Better Outcomes,” highlighting the importance of detecting breast cancer early and seeking appropriate care.
