Breast cancer in males is a serious, but often overlooked, issue. It’s estimated that over 2,500 men are diagnosed with breast cancer each year in the United States alone. Despite the increasing awareness of this medical condition, many people are unaware that men can even get breast cancer. This blog post will provide an overview of the causes, symptoms, treatments, and prognosis for breast cancer in males. We will discuss what everyone should know about Breast Cancer in Males risks factors and how to raise awareness and support those affected.
incidence rates
Breast cancer is an issue primarily associated with women, yet it affects men as well. According to a recent study from the National Cancer Institute, an estimated 2,670 men will be diagnosed with breast cancer in the United States this year. Although this number is relatively small compared to the number of female cases, it is still important to recognize and understand the realities of male breast cancer, as it can have serious health implications. This Breast Cancer in Males introduction aims to provide readers with information on incidence rates, symptoms, risk factors, prognosis, and treatment of the condition.
When it comes to incidence rates, the likelihood of being diagnosed with breast cancer increases with age. Among those aged 15-39, the chance of developing breast cancer is 0.0036%. For those aged 40-59, the rate is 0.0084%, and for those aged 60-79, it is 0.0383%. It is also important to note that white men are at a slightly higher risk for developing breast cancer than black men (0.02% vs 0.01%).
symptoms
When it comes to Breast Cancer in Males, the symptoms can be hard to recognize. In fact, many men may not even realize they have it until it is more advanced. Generally speaking, the most common symptom of Breast Cancer in Males is a lump or mass in the chest. Other possible signs include pain in the chest area, skin changes such as puckering or dimpling of the skin, swelling of the lymph nodes in the chest or armpit area, and nipple discharge.
It’s important to note that some of these symptoms may also be caused by other conditions and therefore should be discussed with a healthcare professional to rule out any potential causes. Some risk factors for developing Breast Cancer in Males include being older than 65, having a family history of Breast Cancer, excessive alcohol consumption, and taking certain medications such as testosterone therapy. Therefore, any individual with these risk factors should speak to their doctor about the potential of Breast Cancer in Males.
Risk Factors
Research suggests that the risk factors for Breast Cancer in Males are similar to those for females. While some of these risks may be out of your control, there are a few lifestyle choices and behaviors that can increase the chance of developing Breast Cancer in Males.
One of the most significant risk factors is age. The average age of diagnosis is between 60 and 69 years old. Other risk factors include having a family history of Breast Cancer and alcohol, being overweight, using alcohol, and smoking.
The use of alcohol is considered one of the major Breast Cancer in Males risk factors. A meta-analysis published in the journal Alcohol and Alcoholism found that men who drink more than 30 grams of alcohol per day have a 70% increased risk of developing breast cancer compared to non-drinkers.
Environmental exposure to radiation and exposure to certain hormones, such as testosterone, can also increase the risk of developing breast cancer. Additionally, genetic mutations like BRCA2 or PTEN can increase a man’s risk of developing breast cancer.
Men who are concerned about their risk should speak with their healthcare provider about ways to reduce their risk.
Treatment
When it comes to treating breast cancer in males, the approach is similar to that used for female breast cancer. Surgery is usually the first step, followed by chemotherapy and radiation, depending on the size and location of the tumor. Depending on the type of tumor, hormone therapy or targeted therapy may be recommended.
Surgery: Depending on the size of the tumor and the extent of involvement, surgery can involve partial or full mastectomy (removal of the breast tissue), as well as axillary lymph node dissection (removal of nearby lymph nodes).
Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy uses drugs to kill cancer cells. It may be administered before or after surgery, depending on the size and type of the tumor.
Radiation: Radiation is used to destroy any cancer cells that may have spread beyond the original site. It is often used after surgery to reduce the risk of recurrence.
Hormone therapy: Hormone therapy is used to reduce the amount of hormones that fuel cancer growth, such as estrogen and progesterone. This type of therapy is usually only recommended if the tumor is hormone-receptor positive (meaning it contains receptors for hormones).
Targeted therapy: Targeted therapy is used to interfere with specific pathways involved in cancer growth and development. This type of therapy can be used in combination with other treatments or as a standalone treatment.
It is important to note that alcohol consumption has been linked to an increased risk of developing breast cancer in males, so reducing or eliminating alcohol consumption may reduce this risk. Additionally, reducing or eliminating certain lifestyle risks factors, such as obesity, smoking, and lack of physical activity can also help reduce your risk for breast cancer.
