Male breast cancer is rare but very real. Around 400 men in the UK are diagnosed every year, and those numbers are rising. Phil Alderson knows this first‑hand. After feeling a pea‑sized lump behind his left nipple in 2016, he sought medical advice and had a mastectomy within a month. Early detection and prompt treatment saved his life and saved the health system tens of thousands of pounds. He now uses his personal story to encourage men to listen to their bodies, speak up and get checked.

Why Male Breast Cancer Awareness Matters

Breast cancer campaigns often focus on women, but ignoring men leaves hundreds of patients without vital information and support. Phil has spoken candidly about the isolation, stigma and mental health toll experienced by men with breast cancer. He describes how society teaches men to be tough and silent, making it hard to ask for help or admit vulnerability. Breaking the silence is not just brave – it’s survival.

By sharing his journey, Phil aims to destigmatise the disease and remind everyone that breasts are not tied to gender. His advocacy work highlights the importance of early detection, encourages routine self‑checks, and calls for more inclusive support services for male patients.

Phil’s “Check Your Pecs” Campaign

During Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Phil hit the streets of Liverpool with a homemade cardboard sign reading “Check Your Pecs”. The initiative sparked conversations and captured the hearts of thousands online. A viral reel documenting his street performance reached nearly 30,000 views. The video reminded people of all genders to examine their chests for unusual lumps or changes. News outlets praised his unconventional approach for breaking stereotypes and reminding the public that breast cancer doesn’t discriminate.

Phil pairs the campaign with fundraising efforts. For example, he encouraged followers to skip their daily coffee and donate the savings to the Fighting to be Heard Foundation’s winter appeal, raising more than £2,000 to support people living with secondary breast cancer.

Phil Alderson holding a ‘Check Your Pecs’ sign in Liverpool
Phil’s viral campaign encourages men to examine their chests. Replace this image with one of Phil’s photos from the campaign.

Recognising the Signs and Getting Help

  • Look for a lump or thickening in breast tissue, especially near the nipple.
  • Pay attention to changes in skin texture (dimpling, puckering) or nipple appearance.
  • Don’t ignore unexplained chest pain or nipple discharge; consult a doctor promptly.
  • If you have a family history of breast cancer or carry BRCA mutations, ask your GP about screening options.
  • Remember: early detection saves lives.

If you notice any of these signs, contact your GP. This site is for information only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice.

Get Involved

You can help raise awareness in several ways:

  • Share Phil’s message: Repost his campaigns on social media and use the hashtag #CheckYourPecs to amplify awareness.
  • Donate: Support charities like Future Dreams, Fighting to be Heard, and Breast Cancer Now. Phil’s book, Someone’s Survival Guide, donates all UK profits to Future Dreams, raising over £1,000 for the charity.
  • Volunteer or fundraise: Join Phil at awareness events or organise your own campaigns to support men with breast cancer.
  • Follow Phil on Instagram: Keep up with his advocacy, memes and behind‑the‑scenes posts via @philaldo.

Together we can challenge stereotypes, educate our communities, and ensure men receive the support and information they need when facing breast cancer.