Male Breast Cancer: A Rare but Rising Concern
The colour pink isn't just for women, and neither is the disease it symbolises: breast cancer.
Breast Cancer in Men
While breast cancer is over 100 times more common in women than in men, men often struggle to detect it early. When treated with standard methods, survival rates for breast cancer are similar for both men and women. However, significant differences in diagnosis and screening create challenges for men, who are more likely to dismiss a lump and typically present with more advanced stages of the disease. This contributes to a 25% higher mortality rate for male breast cancer compared to female breast cancer.
Once the cancer spreads to the lymph nodes—something that occurs more frequently in men—it necessitates more aggressive treatment and increases the risk of developing a second cancer. Men with a history of breast cancer face a higher likelihood of cancers in the opposite breast, as well as melanoma and prostate cancer.
Historically, the situation has been complicated by the lack of traditional breast cancer treatments offered to men. Standard treatment for male breast cancer usually includes a combination of chemotherapy, hormone therapy, and mastectomy.
Raising awareness among men and healthcare providers is crucial for reducing the incidence of male breast cancer. Key risk factors include obesity, older age, radiation exposure, family history, gynecomastia (overdeveloped breast tissue), estrogen exposure, and heavy alcohol use.
If men notice any changes in their breast/s, it's advisable to consult a doctor.
