Breast cancer is often thought of as a disease that primarily affects women, but men can get breast cancer too. Though it’s much rarer in men, it is still important to recognise that male breast cancer is a real and serious condition. In fact, about 1 in 1,000 men will be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime. Unfortunately, because of the general misconception that only women can develop breast cancer, many men don't seek help or get diagnosed early enough. Raising awareness and educating men about breast cancer can save lives.

This article will highlight important facts about male breast cancer, including risk factors, symptoms, prevention strategies, and how awareness are important in early detection and treatment.

Understanding Male Breast Cancer
Risk Factors for Male Breast Cancer
Symptoms of Male Breast Cancer
Prevention and Early Detection
Myths and Facts About Male Breast Cancer
Did You Know?
Conclusion
When to Seek Help
Frequently Asked Questions

Understanding Male Breast Cancer

Male breast cancer occurs when cells in the male breast tissue begin to grow uncontrollably. Like in women, breast cancer in men can start in the ducts or in the tissue. Since men have much less breast tissue than women, the cancer tends to spread more quickly. Male breast cancer is typically diagnosed at an older age, with the average age being 68. It is also more likely to be detected at a later stage due to the lack of awareness among men.

Breast cancer in men is often underdiagnosed or misdiagnosed, primarily because many people don't associate breast cancer with men. Awareness is key to ensuring that men seek help when they experience symptoms and undergo regular screenings if they are at high risk.

Risk Factors for Male Breast Cancer

Understanding the risk factors for male breast cancer can help in early detection. While the exact cause remains unknown, several factors can increase a man’s risk of developing breast cancer:

Family History: Men with a family history of breast cancer, especially a mother or sister with the disease, are at a higher risk. Inherited gene mutations like BRCA1 and BRCA2, which are often associated with breast cancer in women, also increase the risk for men.
Age: The risk of developing breast cancer increases with age. Men aged 60 and above are more likely to be diagnosed.
Hormonal Imbalances: Higher levels of oestrogen, whether due to obesity, hormone replacement therapy, or other medical conditions, increase the risk.
Previous Radiation Exposure: Men who have received radiation therapy to the chest area in the past may have a higher risk of developing breast cancer later in life.
Klinefelter Syndrome: Men with this rare genetic condition, which causes an extra X chromosome, have an increased risk of breast cancer.

Symptoms of Male Breast Cancer

Just like women, men may experience various symptoms related to breast cancer. Common signs include:

Lumps in the breast: The most common symptom of male breast cancer is a painless lump or mass under the nipple or in the breast tissue.
Changes in the skin: Men may notice changes in the skin of their breasts, such as redness, puckering, or dimpling, resembling the appearance of an orange peel.
Discharge from the nipple: Any discharge, especially if it is bloody, should be investigated by a healthcare professional.
Pain or tenderness: Though breast cancer is often painless, some men may experience discomfort or tenderness around the breast or nipple.

It's important for men to remember that these symptoms may not always indicate cancer, but they do require prompt medical attention to rule out the possibility of a malignancy.

Prevention and Early Detection

While there’s no surefire way to prevent male breast cancer, early detection can significantly improve the chances of successful treatment. Men should be aware of the symptoms and consult with a healthcare professional if they notice any changes in their breast tissue.

Some preventive measures and early detection strategies include:

Regular Self-Examinations: Men should perform regular self-exams to check for any lumps, changes in the skin, or nipple discharge. Familiarising oneself with how the breasts look and feel can make it easier to notice changes early.
Family History Screening: Men with a family history of breast cancer should discuss screening options with their doctor. Genetic counselling and tests like mammograms or ultrasounds may be recommended, especially for those with BRCA gene mutations.
Maintaining a Healthy Lifestyle: Staying active, avoiding excessive alcohol consumption, and maintaining a healthy weight can help reduce the risk of breast cancer.
Hormonal Therapy Monitoring: Men undergoing hormone replacement therapy (HRT) or other treatments that alter hormone levels should consult with their doctors about monitoring for breast cancer.

Myths and Facts About Male Breast Cancer

Myth 1: Only women can get breast cancer.
Fact: Men can get breast cancer too. Though much rarer, male breast cancer is a real condition that affects thousands of men each year.

Myth 2: Breast cancer in men is not as serious as in women.
Fact: Breast cancer in men is equally serious as in women. It can be life-threatening if not diagnosed early, and treatment options are available that can significantly improve outcomes.

Myth 3: Men don’t need to worry about breast cancer if they don’t have a family history.
Fact: While family history is a risk factor, most cases of male breast cancer occur in men without a family history of the disease. Men with BRCA gene mutations are also at higher risk.

Myth 4: Men can’t get breast cancer until they are elderly.
Fact: While the risk of male breast cancer increases with age, younger men can also be diagnosed with breast cancer. Regular self-examinations can help detect changes early, regardless of age.

Myth 5: If a man finds a lump in his breast, it’s always cancer.
Fact: Not all lumps are cancerous. Men can develop benign conditions like gynaecomastia, which causes enlarged breast tissue. However, any new lump should be evaluated by a doctor to rule out cancer.

Did You Know?

Did You Know 1: Breast cancer in men accounts for less than 1% of all breast cancer cases, but it still affects about 2,500 men in the United States each year.
Did You Know 2: Men diagnosed with breast cancer often have a higher mortality rate than women, partly because they tend to be diagnosed at later stages. This highlights the importance of early detection and awareness.

Conclusion

Raising awareness of male breast cancer is crucial for ensuring that men recognise the risk and take proactive steps toward early detection. By understanding the symptoms, risk factors, and preventive measures, men can better safeguard their health and seek timely medical help when needed.

When to Seek Help

If you notice unusual changes in your chest area, such as lumps, swelling, or discharge, consult our cancer care department immediately. Early diagnosis and treatment are key to effectively managing male breast cancer.

Narayana Health is here to provide expert care, advanced screening programs, personalised treatment plans, and support every step of the way.

Schedule a consultation today—Call us @ 08068617735

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