• Source:JND
Add as a preferred

Breast Cancer In Men: Can only women get breast cancer? No! Breast cancer is a condition that even men can develop, and while it is true that women are certainly at an increased risk of developing breast cancer, men are also able to develop secondary forms of breast cancer.

Dr. Roma Pradhan, Associate Director, Endocrine & Breast Surgery at Medanta Hospital, Lucknow shares her expert advice on Male breast cancer. One in 833 men develops breast cancer in their lifetime.  Breast cancer in men accounts for about 1 % of breast cancer cases.

Risk factors For Male Breast Cancer

  • A Family History of Breast Cancer: Men with a family history of breast cancer especially when the close relatives include the mother, sister, father or brother are at a relatively higher risk of developing breast cancer.
  • Genetic Mutations: When a man inherits genetic mutations like BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes automatically are at a higher risk of developing breast cancer.
  • Radiation Exposure: Past exposure to radiation in the chest area from previous radiation therapy increases the risk of breast cancer
  • Hormonal Imbalance: Higher estrogen and lower levels of testosterone also result in breast cancer.
  • Age factor: One is at higher risk of developing breast cancer after 60
  • Obesity: Estrogen levels can rise due to excess fat in the body
  • Unhealthy liver: Liver conditions like Cirrhosis raise the estrogen levels.
  • Testicular issues: Testicular cancer or undescended testicles can also be a risk factor that might contribute to breast cancer.

Symptoms of Male Breast Cancer

  • Presence of a lump
  • Change in breast size or shape
  • Dimpling or puckering of the skin
  • Redness or scaling of the skin
  • Nipple discharge or inversion
  • Pain or tenderness
breast-cancer-in-men-symptoms
Breast Cancer In Men (Image Credits: Canva)

Diagnosis and Treatment

  • Diagnosis typically involves triple assessment
  • Physical examination
  • Mammography
  • Ultrasound
  • Biopsy

Treatment options

  • Surgery (mastectomy or lumpectomy)
  • Radiation therapy
  • Chemotherapy
  • Hormone therapy
  • Targeted therapy

Importance of Awareness

Male breast cancer is a much neglected disease and due to lack of awareness, it is usually diagnosed at later stages. Doctors encourage men to carry out self-examination and visit a doctor in case they notice any abnormalities that may improve outcomes. We must remember that breast cancer strikes both females and males. Early detection and awareness are essential for proper treatment and increased survival rates.

ALSO READ: How Breast Cancer Affect Younger Women? Doctor Lists Challenges And Diagnosis

ALSO READ: Myth Vs Fact: Doctor Debunks Common Misconceptions About Breast Cancer

Also In News