Can men get breast cancer? Understanding the reality and the risk

Many men are surprised to learn the answer to this question, but yes, men can absolutely get breast cancer. While it's far less common than in women, male breast cancer is a real medical condition that affects thousands of men each year.

Understanding the facts, recognizing the warning signs and knowing your risk factors could literally save your life.

The reality: Men can and do get breast cancer

The myth that breast cancer only affects women persists, but it's simply not true. Men have breast tissue, and where there's breast tissue, cancer can develop. Though male breast tissue is less developed than female breast tissue, it still contains ducts and cells that can become cancerous.

And unfortunately, this misconception can be dangerous. When men discover lumps or changes in their chest area, they often dismiss these symptoms, assuming breast cancer can't happen to them. This delay in seeking medical attention can lead to later-stage diagnoses and more challenging treatment outcomes.

How common is male breast cancer?

While male breast cancer represents less than 1% of all breast cancer cases, the numbers are more significant than many realize. According to the American Cancer Society, approximately 2,800 new cases of invasive breast cancer are diagnosed in men each year in the United States, with about 510 men dying from the disease annually.

Men are typically diagnosed at an older age than women, with the average age being around 68. However, male breast cancer can occur at any age, including in younger men, particularly those with genetic predispositions.

3 warning signs and symptoms you shouldn’t ignore

Recognizing the early warning signs of male breast cancer is crucial for prompt treatment. You should be alert to these symptoms:

1. Lumps or thickening in the breast tissue or underarm area represent the most common early sign. Unlike in women, men have less breast tissue, so lumps are often easier to detect and may be felt closer to the chest wall.
2. Changes in the nipple or breast area deserve immediate attention. This includes nipple discharge (especially if bloody), nipple retraction or inversion, or scaling and redness of the nipple or areola.
3. Breast pain or tenderness that doesn't resolve, while less common as an initial symptom, shouldn't be ignored if it persists or worsens over time.

The risk: 5 key factors for male breast cancer

Understanding your risk factors helps you make informed decisions about monitoring and prevention. Several factors can increase a man's likelihood of developing breast cancer:

1. Age remains the most significant risk factor, with risk increasing as men get older. Most male breast cancer cases occur in men over 60.
2. Genetic factors play a crucial role. Men with BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene mutations face significantly elevated risk. Family history of breast or ovarian cancer, particularly in close relatives, also increases risk.
3. Hormonal influences can contribute to cancer development. Conditions that increase estrogen levels or decrease testosterone, such as Klinefelter syndrome or liver disease, may elevate risk.
4. Radiation exposure to the chest area, whether from medical treatments or occupational exposure, can increase the likelihood of developing breast cancer later in life.
5. Lifestyle factors including excessive alcohol consumption and obesity can influence hormone levels and overall cancer risk.

Why early detection matters

Early detection dramatically improves treatment outcomes for male breast cancer. When caught in its earliest stages, the five-year survival rate exceeds 95%. However, because men often delay seeking medical attention for breast symptoms, male breast cancer is frequently diagnosed at more advanced stages than female breast cancer.

You should perform regular self-examinations and report any changes to your healthcare provider immediately. Unlike women, men don't have routine breast cancer screening guidelines, making self-awareness and prompt medical consultation even more critical.

When to see your doctor

Don't wait if you notice any concerning symptoms. If you discover any lumps, skin changes, nipple discharge or persistent breast pain, have your doctor perform an initial evaluation and refer you to specialists if necessary.

Remember that most breast lumps in men are not cancerous, but only medical evaluation can determine this definitively. Early consultation allows for proper diagnosis and, if needed, prompt treatment initiation.

If you've noticed any changes in your chest area, don't dismiss them. Contact your primary care physician to schedule an evaluation.