During Men’s Breast Cancer Awareness Week, INTEGRIS Health is reminding men that they can develop breast cancer and should seek medical care for any unusual breast or chest changes.
During Men’s Breast Cancer Awareness Week, INTEGRIS Health is reminding men that they can develop breast cancer and should seek medical care for any unusual breast or chest changes.
Men account for less than 1% of breast cancer cases in the United States, but they are often diagnosed at a later stage. Low awareness may cause men to dismiss a lump or delay seeking care, potentially limiting treatment options and affecting outcomes.
The overall five-year relative survival rate is approximately 84% for men with breast cancer, compared with approximately 92% for women. When male breast cancer is detected before it has spread, the five-year relative survival rate is approximately 97%.
“Because breast cancer in men is uncommon, a lump or other change may not immediately be recognized as something that needs medical attention,” says Samer Hassan, M.D., a board-certified internal medicine, oncology and hematology physician with INTEGRIS Health Cancer Institute Southwest. “Knowing what is normal for your body, possible warning signs and promptly reporting changes can help ensure concerns are evaluated as early as possible.”
The most common sign is a painless lump or swelling, often beneath the nipple or areola. Other potential symptoms include:
These symptoms do not always indicate cancer. Gynecomastia, infection, injury and other noncancerous conditions can also cause breast changes. However, men should not dismiss a new lump, nipple discharge or a persistent change in the breast or chest area. A healthcare professional may recommend a physical examination, diagnostic imaging or additional testing.
Age and family history can affect a man’s likelihood of developing breast cancer. Other risk factors may include inherited mutations in the BRCA1 or BRCA2 genes, hormonal imbalances, obesity, liver disease, previous radiation exposure and certain lifestyle factors. Men with a strong family history of breast or ovarian cancer should discuss their individual risk and the possible role of genetic counseling or testing with their physician.
The most common form of male breast cancer is invasive ductal carcinoma, which begins in a milk duct and spreads into surrounding breast tissue. Treatment depends on the type and stage of the cancer and may include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy or hormone therapy.
“Breast cancer is rare in men, but it should not be overlooked,” says Hassan. “Men may not consider breast cancer when they discover a lump, which can lead to delayed evaluation. If something looks or feels different, do not wait to have it checked.”
Men who notice a breast lump, nipple discharge, skin changes or another concerning symptom should contact their primary care physician. Schedule an appointment for an evaluation.
The oncologists and breast surgeons at INTEGRIS Health provide individualized evaluation, treatment and support for patients affected by breast cancer. Learn more about cancer care at INTEGRIS Health.
