Can Men Get Breast Cancer? What Every Man Should Know



Introduction

When we hear the term "breast cancer," we always think of women. This widespread association has led many to believe that breast cancer is exclusively a women’s disease. However, the truth is: men can get breast cancer too. Though rare, male breast cancer is very real and often goes undetected until it reaches an advanced stage—simply because most men aren’t aware they’re at risk. This lack of awareness contributes to late diagnoses and lower survival rates. It's time to break the myth and bring male breast cancer into the spotlight. In this blog, we’ll explore why men need to be informed about breast cancer, the symptoms to look out for, and the importance of early detection for both men and women.

Understanding Male Breast Cancer

Breast cancer is often misunderstood as a disease that only affects women, but the truth is that men have breast tissue too—just in smaller amounts. Both men and women are born with a small amount of breast tissue, and though it doesn't typically develop the way it does in females, it can still become cancerous. Male breast cancer, while rare, is a serious and often overlooked condition that deserves attention. In fact, male breast cancer accounts for less than 1% of all breast cancer cases worldwide, making it uncommon but not impossible. There are several types of breast cancer that can develop in men, with Invasive Ductal Carcinoma (IDC) being the most common. IDC begins in the milk ducts and invades surrounding breast tissue. Other, less common types include Ductal Carcinoma in Situ (DCIS), Inflammatory Breast Cancer, and Paget’s Disease of the Nipple. Because men are generally less aware of their risk, these cancers are often diagnosed at a later stage when treatment options may be more limited. Understanding that breast tissue in men is susceptible to the same abnormalities as in women is crucial for early detection and timely treatment. Raising awareness, recognizing symptoms early, and encouraging men to take any changes in their chest area seriously can save lives.

Causes and Risk Factors

Though rare, male breast cancer has several identifiable causes and risk factors. Recognizing them is the first step toward early detection and prevention. Here's what increases the risk:

  • Genetics: Inherited mutations in BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes significantly increase the risk of male breast cancer.
  • Age: The majority of male breast cancer cases are diagnosed in men aged 60 and above.
  • Family History: Having a close relative with breast or ovarian cancer raises your risk.
  • Hormonal Imbalance: Elevated oestrogen levels, due to obesity or medications, can increase breast cancer risk.
  • Radiation Exposure: Previous radiation treatment to the chest increases susceptibility to breast cancer.
  • Chronic Liver Disease: Conditions like cirrhosis can disrupt hormone levels, increasing cancer risk.
  • Klinefelter Syndrome: This rare genetic condition involves extra X chromosomes, leading to higher oestrogen levels.

    • Understanding these risk factors helps in early screening and better management.

    Signs and Symptoms to Watch Out For

    Although male breast cancer is rare, early detection can save lives. Awareness of the warning signs is crucial. Don’t dismiss unusual changes—these could be the body's early signals of a problem.

  • Lump or swelling in the chest area is the most common symptom and may feel firm or painless; any unusual mass should be evaluated by a doctor.
  • Skin dimpling or puckering may resemble the texture of an orange peel and could indicate underlying tissue changes due to tumour growth.
  • Nipple retraction or discharge, especially if bloody or persistent, is a red flag that requires immediate medical attention.
  • Redness or scaling of the nipple or surrounding skin can mimic skin infections but may signal cancerous changes beneath.
  • Pain or tenderness in the breast area isn’t always cancer-related but should not be ignored, especially if it’s persistent or worsening.
  • Importance of not ignoring even small changes: even minor or painless symptoms could be early indicators of breast cancer in men.

    • If you notice any of these signs, don’t delay. Early diagnosis makes a big difference.

    How Breast Cancer is Diagnosed in Men

    Though breast cancer is less common in men, timely and accurate diagnosis is essential for effective treatment. A combination of physical exams, imaging, and lab tests helps confirm and understand the disease.

  • Clinical breast exam and medical history help doctors assess any visible signs, lumps, or symptoms, and evaluate personal and family risk factors for male breast cancer.
  • Mammogram and ultrasound provide detailed images of breast tissue, helping identify abnormal growths, masses, or calcifications that may need further investigation.
  • Biopsy for confirming diagnosis involves removing a small sample of breast tissue or fluid to examine under a microscope and determine if cancer cells are present.
  • Genetic testing (especially for BRCA mutations) is recommended for men with a strong family history or early diagnosis, to understand inherited risks and guide treatment plans.

    • For males with breast cancer, improved results depend on early detection and precise diagnosis. Staying informed and proactive can make all the difference in successful treatment and recovery.

    Treatment Options Available

    Effective treatment of male breast cancer involves multiple approaches tailored to the patient’s condition. Early intervention and personalized care improve outcomes and quality of life.

  • Surgery: Mastectomy, the removal of breast tissue, is the most common surgical treatment for male breast cancer, aiming to eliminate the tumour and affected tissue.
  • Radiation Therapy: Uses high-energy rays to destroy cancer cells post-surgery or when surgery isn't an option, reducing the risk of recurrence.
  • Chemotherapy: Involves drugs that target and kill rapidly dividing cancer cells, often used in advanced or aggressive cases.
  • Hormone Therapy: Such as Tamoxifen, blocks oestrogen receptors to slow or stop hormone-driven cancer growth, commonly prescribed in hormone receptor-positive cancers.
  • Targeted Therapy: Focuses on specific molecules or pathways involved in cancer growth, providing personalized treatment based on cancer type and genetic markers.

    • A comprehensive, multidisciplinary approach ensures the most effective management of male breast cancer, improving survival rates and quality of life.

    Can It Be Prevented? What Men Can Do

    Male breast cancer may not always be preventable, but men can take proactive steps to reduce their risk and detect any early signs.

  • Know your family history, especially if breast or ovarian cancer runs in relatives, to understand your risk and discuss genetic testing with your doctor.
  • Maintain a healthy weight and lifestyle by eating balanced meals, exercising regularly, and avoiding obesity, which can influence hormone levels linked to cancer risk.
  • Limit alcohol consumption and avoid anabolic steroids, both of which can increase oestrogen levels and potentially raise breast cancer risk in men.
  • Perform regular self-examinations of the chest to detect lumps, swelling, or other changes early, and schedule routine medical check-ups for professional evaluation.
  • Seek immediate medical advice if you notice any unusual changes in your chest area such as lumps, nipple discharge, or skin changes, to ensure prompt diagnosis and treatment.

    • Taking these steps can help men stay vigilant and proactive. Awareness and healthy habits play a crucial role in prevention and early intervention.

    Conclusion

    Awareness truly saves lives. While male breast cancer is rare, it is just as serious and demands the same level of attention and care as any other cancer. The key to better outcomes lies in early detection, which can only happen when men are informed and proactive about their breast health. Cancer does not discriminate based on a person's gender, so no one is immune. Encouraging regular self-checks, prompt medical consultation for any unusual symptoms, and a greater conversation around male breast cancer can make a significant difference.

    Let’s break the stigma and ensure that men know their risks and take the right steps early. To learn more or book a consultation, visit our Cancer Care Department at Be Well Hospitals or call 9698 300 300 today.