When breast cancer is mentioned, most people think of women. But men are not immune to this disease. Although rare, male breast cancer is on the rise, with more cases being reported each year. Increased awareness can help break misconceptions, encourage early detection, and save lives.
Male breast cancer makes up less than 1% of all breast cancer diagnoses in the United States. In 2024, about 2,800 men are expected to receive a diagnosis. While the lifetime risk for men is less than 1 in 1,000, incidence increases with age.
The average age at diagnosis for men is 67—about five years older than the average for women. Because of its rarity, diagnosis is often delayed, reducing treatment success.
Risk Factors In Men
Several factors increase the likelihood of breast cancer in men:
- Advancing age
- Genetic mutations such as BRCA1 and BRCA2
- Family history of breast cancer
- Hormonal and lifestyle factors such as obesity, alcohol use, liver disease, and conditions like gynecomastia or Klinefelter syndrome
- Exposure to chest radiation
“Knowing these risk factors is essential in identifying high-risk individuals who may benefit from early screening and monitoring,” said Dr. Kaushik.
Symptoms Men Should Not Ignore
The symptoms of male breast cancer mirror those in women, but men often overlook them. Warning signs include:
- A painless lump in the breast
- Nipple discharge
- Skin changes such as dimpling, redness, or inversion of the nipple
Any man experiencing these symptoms should seek medical evaluation immediately. Early detection is key to better outcomes.
Why Early Detection Matters
Routine mammography is not recommended for men because of the disease’s low prevalence. However, men with a family history or genetic predisposition should consider screening.
Male and female breast cancers share similarities but also have differences. Most male breast cancers are invasive ductal carcinomas, while lobular carcinomas are extremely rare. Studies show nearly all male tumors are hormone receptor-positive, which influences treatment strategies and outcomes.
Because breast cancer is widely seen as a “woman’s disease,” men may delay seeking help. This stigma contributes to later diagnoses and poorer prognoses.
Promoting Awareness And Vigilance
Healthcare providers, advocacy groups, and communities have a vital role in raising awareness. Key steps include:
- Educating the public on symptoms and risk factors.
- Promoting genetic testing and screening for high-risk men.
- Normalizing conversations about male breast cancer to reduce stigma.
The bottom line
Breast cancer is not exclusive to women. Though rare, men can and do develop this disease, often at older ages and with poorer outcomes due to delayed diagnosis. Greater awareness, education, and proactive healthcare can improve survival rates and challenge harmful misconceptions.
