Ghanaian dermatologist, Dr. Kofi Ansah Brifo in a discussion on Happy 98.9 FM’s morning show shed light on an often-overlooked dimension of breast cancer, dermatological manifestations, which may appear long before a lump is detected.
Dr. Brifo explained that while breast cancer is widely associated with the presence of a lump, the skin can sometimes be the first organ to signal underlying disease.
“I’ve seen patients present with itchy rashes, redness, thickened skin, or nipple changes that were initially treated as eczema or fungal infections. Sadly, months later, biopsies confirmed inflammatory breast cancer — one of the most aggressive forms”; Dr. Brifo mentioned.
He emphasised that these early warning signs are often missed by both patients and clinicians, leading to delayed diagnosis and poorer outcomes.
According to him, this highlights the need for heightened clinical vigilance among primary care providers, nurses, and general practitioners.
“A stubborn breast rash should never be ignored. If a rash or skin change fails to respond to standard treatment, it must be investigated further. Early detection is not only life-saving; it is skin-saving too,” he cautioned.
The dermatologist further discussed the skin complications that can arise from cancer treatments, such as chemotherapy and radiotherapy.
These therapies, he noted, can cause pigmentation changes, radiation burns, ulcers, and scarring — physical side effects that often take an emotional toll on patients.
“Healing from breast cancer goes beyond tumour removal. We must help women regain their confidence, comfort, and sense of identity through proper dermatologic and psychological care”; Dr. Brifo said.
During the interview, Dr. Brifo also paid tribute to three Ghanaian oncology experts — Dr. Dede, Dr. Nsaful, and Professor Clegg-Lamptey — for their pioneering contributions to breast cancer care in Ghana and across Africa.
He lauded their commitment to multidisciplinary collaboration and patient-centred care, which continues to inspire new generations of clinicians.
As part of Pink October, the international month for breast cancer awareness, Dr. Brifo used the platform to debunk common misconceptions:
Breast cancer is not only about lumps.
Skin changes are not always harmless.
Recovery must include emotional and psychological support.
He announced that Skin Foundation Africa (SFA)a non-profit organisation he founded is partnering with breast cancer foundations, advocacy groups, and public health institutions to roll out free education and awareness programmes on the skin signs of breast cancer.
The initiative aims to improve early detection and ensure that no woman suffers in silence because her symptoms were overlooked.
“Sometimes, the skin whispers the first warning of cancer. When we listen early enough, we can save lives,” Dr. Brifo concluded.
