Male breast cancer is a rare cancer that forms in the breast tissue of men. Although breast cancer is most often thought of as a disease that affects women, breast cancer does occur in men. Although it can occur at any age, male breast cancer is most common in older men. Men diagnosed with early-stage breast cancer have a good chance of recovery. Depending on your specific situation treatments, such as surgical removal, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy, may be recommended. SOHO Men’s Health is dedicated to supporting you through all of the medical challenges you may be experiencing. Our team of dedicated staff is ready to help.
Keep reading to find out more about male breast cancer and what you can do to reduce your risk.
What are the risk factors for male breast cancer?
- Age. The average age at diagnosis of male breast cancer is 72 years. After age 50, the risk increases.
- Genetic Mutations. Inherited gene mutations, such as BRCA 1 and BRCA 2, increase the risk of breast cancer.
- Family History. A close relative with a family history of breast cancer is another risk.
- Radiation treatment. Those who have received radiation therapy for other types of cancer in the past have a higher risk of developing breast cancer.
- Hormone therapy treatment. Medications containing estrogen have historically been used to treat prostate cancer and may increase the risk of breast cancer in men.
- Klinefelter Syndrome. Klinefelter syndrome is a genetic condition in which males have an extra X chromosome. An extra X chromosome causes the body to produce higher levels of estrogen and lower levels of androgens.
- Testicular conditions/injuries. Testicular disorders that also increase the risk of breast cancer in men include testicular injury, testicular swelling, or surgery to remove the testicle.
- Liver disease. Cirrhosis can lower or increase estrogen levels in men, leading to an increased risk of breast cancer in men.
- Overweight/Obesity. Overweight and obese men also have a higher risk of breast cancer.
What types of breast cancers can men get?
Invasive ductal carcinoma is cancer cells that start in the ducts and grow outside the ducts to other parts of the breast tissue. Invasive cancer cells can also spread, or metastasize, to other parts of the body. Invasive lobular carcinoma – cancer cells start in the lobules and spread from the lobules to adjacent breast tissue. These invasive cancer cells can spread to other parts of the body. Ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) is a breast disease that can lead to invasive breast cancer. Cancer cells are only present in the milk ducts and have not spread to other tissues in the breast.
What are the symptoms of breast cancer in men?
- Lump/thick area in your breast tissue
- Differences in the nipple (redness, scales, or even discharge)
What can I do to reduce my risks?
Getting genetic counseling would be helpful with the genetic and genetic mutations variants in getting breast cancer. It can help identify cancer early so you can get the earliest, most advanced treatment available. Limiting your alcohol intake, getting regular exercise daily, and eating a diet high in fruits and vegetables are also helpful in fighting against cancer.
What are some options for the treatment of breast cancer?
Depending on how large the tumor is and how far it has spread treatments vary. Some choices are surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, hormone therapy, and targeted therapy. Go to the National Cancer Institute’s Male Breast Cancer Treatment page for more information.
Here at SoHo Men’s Health, we help with all aspects of men’s health from diabetes to male breast cancer. Your overall health, vitality, and wellness are our main goals. Your comfort and privacy are our main priorities. Our highly experienced doctors, nurses, and other staff always deliver the most cutting-edge, confidential, and personalized healthcare in our relaxing, private, state-of-the-art offices. We have an office in the Central Park South area as well as Exchange Place in New York City. Visit our website to take one of our health quizzes or call our offices at 374-749-1174 to schedule an appointment.
