When it comes to breast cancer, people usually think of the female population, but did you know that men make up 1% of all breast cancer cases (source NCBI)?
As most men still wonder, “Can males have breast cancer?”, there’s a strong need for awareness to prompt early detection and save lives.
Read on to learn all about breast cancer in males, its causes, symptoms, prevention strategies, and survival rates.
What is Male Breast Cancer?
Male breast cancer happens when malignant cells develop and multiply in the breast tissues of men. Although men have less breast tissue, they can still develop cancer. The two common types are:
- Invasive ductal carcinoma: It is the most common type of cancer in men’s breasts, and it starts in the milk ducts and may spread to surrounding tissues if left untreated.
- Ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS): In this non-invasive type, the cancer cells remain confined to the ducts and do not spread to the surrounding breast tissues.
Although the chances of breast cancer in males are low compared to women, only 1 out of 100 cases, awareness is crucial.
Causes and Risk Factors
There are several factors, such as genetics, hormones, lifestyle factors, etc., that can increase the risk of male breast cancer. The most common male breast cancer causes are:
- Genetic Factors: Gene mutations in genes such as BRCA1 and BRCA2 can increase the risk of cancer. Moreover, men with a family history of breast or ovarian cancer are also at risk.
- Hormonal Imbalances: Health conditions such as liver disease or Klinefelter syndrome lead to higher estrogen levels in men, which can contribute to cancer development.
- Lifestyle Factors: Excess intake of alcohol, smoking, obesity, and exposure to radiation or chemicals can also increase risk.
- Age: With age, the body’s defence system can weaken, increasing the risk of breast cancer in men after 60.
Symptoms of Breast Cancer in Men
There are many signs that you can recognise to assess male breast cancer and take an early intervention. The Common male breast cancer symptoms are:
- Lumps or swelling near the nipple region
- Changes in the skin colour, dimpling, redness, or thickening
- Nipple inversion or discharge from the nipples
- Pain or tenderness in the breasts
- Swelling in the lymph nodes under the arm
These symptoms may be very subtle, and many men dismiss them, assuming they’re nothing serious. If you experience any of these signs, it’s best to schedule a medical consultation to determine the risks.
How to Detect Breast Cancer in Males?
The detection of cancer in the male breast can be done with physical exams or with medical tests. The common male breast cancer tests are listed below:
- Clinical Examination: You are subjected to a clinical examination by an expert who can check for lumps and tenderness in the breast and nearby lymph nodes.
- Imaging Tests: Mammograms or ultrasounds are used to detect cancerous tissues.
- Biopsy: In this test, the tissue samples are tested to confirm the presence of cancer cells.
Survival Rate and Prognosis
With increasing awareness and advancement in cancer detection and treatment, the male breast cancer survival rate is improving. The five-year survival rate depends on the stage at diagnosis, and is as follows:
- Localised cancer has the highest survival rate, around 96%
- If the cancer has spread to nearby tissues, the survival rate drops to about 75%
- The advanced-stage cancer cases with metastasis have an even lower survival rate
Considering the mortality risks due to late treatment, having awareness about the early symptoms and timely treatment is a key factor that influences the prognosis and overall survival for men diagnosed with breast cancer.
How to Prevent Breast Cancer in Males?
Male breast cancer can’t always be prevented; however, certain measures can help reduce its risk. Do the following:
- Maintain a healthy weight
- Avoid highly processed foods
- Have a physically active lifestyle
- Reduce/avoid alcohol intake and avoid smoking
- Monitor for hormonal imbalances
- If you have a family history of breast cancer, seek genetic counselling
- Eat a healthy diet rich in antioxidants (like berries and other fruits)
Apart from these measures, regularly performing self-examinations and medical check-ups can also help detect the signs of cancer and prevent its progression.
Read More: Understanding the Silent Threat of Ovarian Cancer
To Sum Up
Cancer in males’ breasts is rare, but it is a very real issue that needs awareness. With regular check-ups, healthy lifestyle choices, and attention to any changes in the breast, outcomes can be significantly improved. If you notice any lumps, nipple changes, or persistent breast pain, consult a doctor immediately, as timely intervention can save lives.
Frequently Asked Questions Related to Breast Cancer in Men
What is the survival rate for male breast cancer?
The 5-year survival rate after a diagnosis of breast cancer for men was estimated to be 77.6%, as per NIH.
Is breast cancer curable in men?
Yes, breast cancer in men is curable if detected and treated in the early stages.
What is the life expectancy of a man with breast cancer?
The life expectancy of a man with breast cancer depends on various factors, such as individual health, the stage at which it is diagnosed, treatment effectiveness, etc. For women, it is estimated that 25% will die within 20 years. While no such data is available for men, the survival rates are often similar.
Can breast cancer cause death in men?
Yes. Due to late diagnosis and undertreatment, breast cancer may cause death in men.
Is breast cancer more aggressive in men?
The aggressiveness of breast cancer depends on the stage, not sex. However, due to a lack of awareness, men tend to ignore lumps in the breasts, and it is hence diagnosed later, and it may get more challenging to treat.
How long is the treatment for male breast cancer?
The treatment duration depends on the stage, with the hormone therapy lasting from 5 to 10 years, radiation therapy lasting 3 to 6 weeks, and chemotherapy up to 3 to 6 months.
Can I live 20 years after breast cancer?
Yes, with early-stage diagnosis and treatment, many people live beyond 20 years.
Can teenage males get breast cancer?
Yes, teenage males can get breast cancer, although it is rare.
