Breast cancer is often perceived as a disease that primarily affects women, but the reality is that men can also develop this condition.
The American Cancer Society estimates that approximately
Understanding the causes, symptoms, risk factors, and treatment options for men with breast cancer is crucial for raising awareness and improving early detection.
While the exact cause of breast cancer in men is not fully understood, several
- Age: The risk of breast cancer increases with age, with most cases occurring in men over
60 years old . - Family history: Men with a family history of breast cancer, especially in close female relatives like mothers or sisters, have a higher risk. This is partly due to inherited genetic mutations that increase susceptibility to cancer.
- BRCA mutations: Mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes can also
increase the risk of breast cancer in men. Men with these mutations have a higher chance of developing breast cancer at a younger age. They also have an increased risk of other cancers, such as prostate and pancreatic cancer. - Hormonal imbalances: Conditions that alter the balance of hormones, particularly estrogen, can contribute to the development of breast cancer in men. For instance, men with conditions such as Klinefelter syndrome, where they have an extra X chromosome, or those with high estrogen levels, may be more likely to develop the disease.
- Radiation exposure: Previous exposure to radiation, such as radiation therapy for other cancers, is a risk factor for male breast cancer. This is because radiation can damage the DNA in cells and lead to cancerous changes.
- Lifestyle factors: Alcohol consumption and obesity are also linked to an increased risk of breast cancer in men. Obesity can lead to higher levels of estrogen in the body, which may contribute to the development of breast cancer.
The symptoms of breast cancer in men are similar to those in women. The most common symptom is the presence of a lump in the breast. The lump may be painless but could also cause discomfort or tenderness.
Other possible symptoms include:
- changes in the shape or size of the breast
- discharge from the nipple, which may be clear or bloody
- skin changes, such as redness, discoloration, or dimpling
Treatment for breast cancer in men typically involves a combination of surgery, radiation, chemotherapy, and hormone therapy:
- Surgery: The most common treatment for male breast cancer is surgery to remove the tumor. In some cases, removing the entire breast (mastectomy) may be necessary.
- Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy is often used when the cancer has spread to other parts of the body. It uses powerful drugs to kill or shrink cancer cells.
- Radiation therapy: Radiation may be used after surgery to destroy any remaining cancer cells, particularly in cases where the tumor is large or has spread to nearby lymph nodes.
- Hormone therapy: Since breast cancer in men often relies on hormones like estrogen to grow, a doctor may prescribe hormone therapies, such as tamoxifen, to block these hormones or reduce their levels in the body.
- Targeted therapy and immunotherapy: In some cases, targeted therapies or immunotherapies may be used to attack specific cancer cells or boost the body’s immune system to fight the cancer.
The specific treatment plan a doctor prescribes depends on the stage of the cancer, the presence of specific genetic mutations, and other individual factors.
While breast cancer is less common in men than in women, it’s not a disease exclusive to women.
Men should be aware of the symptoms and risk factors associated with male breast cancer and seek medical attention if they notice any unusual changes in their breast tissue. Early detection and treatment are key to improving outcomes.