World Cancer Day 2025: Can Itchy Armpits Be a Sign of Cancer?

By Shubhi Kumar
04 Feb 2025, 08:00 IST

Itchy armpits are generally not a big issue. In some instances, they could signal other severe conditions like cancer. Tap to read!

Could Itchy Armpits Be a Sign of Cancer?

Inflammatory breast cancer is a rare type and can cause symptoms like itching, swelling, and redness. Other signs often show up too.

Infection vs. Cancer

When a patient complains of itching in the breast or armpit, the first suspicion of disease is raised is infection. It starts with antibiotics.

Signs of Inflammatory Breast Cancer

The symptoms of inflammatory breast cancer include itching, swelling, redness, changes in the texture of the skin, and, sometimes, the feeling that the breast is heavier or warmer.

How Often Do Itchy Armpits Mean Cancer?

A study found that unexplained itching made those with it more likely for blood cancer, though the chances were still low.

When to See a Doctor?

When it accompanies other symptoms such as swelling and redness or skin changes, it would be best to see a doctor.

Itchy all Over

For any itching all over the body, especially bothering it in daily life, see a doctor for a checkup.

Other Causes of Itchy Armpits

Armpit itching can result from skin conditions or infections. A physician can help rum up a solution.

Itchy Armpits and Cancer Risk

Cancer is quite unlikely to be the cause of itchy armpits alone. The majority of patients who have inexplicable itching do not receive a cancer diagnosis.

Information credits

This information is sourced from the Healthline’s website. However, it is advisable to consult a doctor/ healthcare professional if you observe any of the symptoms.