Although breast cancer in men accounts for only one percent of total breast cancer diagnoses, Comprehensive Cancer Centers encourages men to be aware of signs, symptoms and risks.
As Comprehensive Cancer Centers marks 2024 Breast Cancer Awareness Month, the cancer care practice wants everyone to know that men can also develop breast cancer. Although it’s rare, understanding causes, symptoms, risk factors, diagnosis, and treatment options is essential for awareness and timely detection.
Anatomy of the Male Breast
Men, like women, have breast tissue. Though male breasts do not develop as fully as female breasts, their anatomy is similar. Breast tissue in men is located behind the nipple and extends outward slightly. This tissue contains ducts that are designed to produce milk, although they normally remain nonfunctional.
Prevalence and Statistics
According to the American Cancer Society, approximately 2,650 men in the United States are diagnosed with breast cancer each year. About 530 men die from the disease annually. The likelihood of a man being diagnosed with breast cancer is about 1 in 1,000, and it risk increases with age. Most men diagnosed with breast cancer are over the age of 60, although younger men may also be affected.
Types of Breast Cancer in Men
The types of breast cancer that men can develop are similar to those seen in women, though some types are more common in men. The primary types of breast cancer include:
- Invasive Ductal Carcinoma (IDC): The most common type of breast cancer in men, accounting for about 80% of cases. IDC begins in milk ducts but invades surrounding breast tissue and can spread to other parts of the body.
- Invasive Lobular Carcinoma (ILC): This cancer begins in lobules. This is glandular tissue that produces milk in women.
- Ductal Carcinoma In Situ (DCIS): This non-invasive form of cancer starts in ducts, but has not yet spread to surrounding tissue. If left untreated, DCIS can develop into invasive breast cancer.
- Paget’s Disease of the Nipple: This rare type of cancer affects the skin of the nipple and areola, often causing itching, redness, and scaling. It may be associated with underlying invasive or non-invasive breast cancer.
- Inflammatory Breast Cancer: An aggressive form of cancer that causes the breast to become red, swollen, and warm. It is rare in men but can be challenging to treat due to its aggressive nature.
Risk Factors for Breast Cancer in Men
Certain risk factors can increase the likelihood of men developing the breast cancer. Understanding risk factors can help men take proactive steps to reduce risks or catch the disease early.
- Age: Most cases of breast cancer are diagnosed in men over the age of 60.
- Family History: Family history, particularly in male relatives, significantly increases risks.
- Genetic Mutations: Men with BRCA2 mutations are at higher risk. Genetic Counseling, offered by Comprehensive can help identify mutations.
- Hormone Imbalances: Elevated levels of estrogen can increase risk of cancer in men. Certain conditions, such as Klinefelter syndrome, liver disease, and obesity, can lead to higher estrogen levels in men.
- Radiation Exposure: Men who have undergone radiation therapy to the chest have an increased risk of developing breast cancer later in life.
- Testicular Conditions: Men who have had testicular conditions, such as undescended testicles or orchitis tend to be at higher risk of developing breast cancer.
For men, reducing all cancer risks, including breast cancer, involve getting tested and screened regularly. Additionally, men should be sure to exercise regularly, paired with a sensible diet, to maintain healthy body weight. As always, if men experience anything out of the ordinary with breasts, or anywhere else in the body, be sure to get checked out by a physician immediately. If a man does have cancer, Comprehensive Cancer Centers provides custom treatment options for patients.
Comprehensive Cancer Centers Can Help
Physicians at Comprehensive Cancer Centers provide a variety of treatment options for patients who’ve been diagnosed with cancer. To schedule an appointment at Comprehensive, call 702-952-3350.
The content is this post is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of qualified health providers with questions you may have regarding medical conditions.
