Rare, But Men Can Also Develop Breast Cancer: Expert Shares Who Is At Risk And Warning Signs

When we speak of breast cancer, we often associate the disease with women alone. This is because female gender is the strongest breast cancer risk factor, as per the World Health Organization (WHO). However, in rare cases, men can also develop abnormalities in their breast cells, leading to the formation of a tumour. 

This October, which is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, the OnlyMyHealth team spoke to Dr Rohan Khandelwal, Lead Consultant-The Breast Centre, CK Birla Hospital, Gurugram, to understand every aspect of male breast cancer ranging from the warning signs to its risk factors. 

Also Read: Breast Size Doesn’t Increase Breast Cancer Risk: Here’s What Does As Per A Breast Cancer Expert

Prevalence Of Male Breast Cancer

Male breast cancer is rare and has an incidence of only 1%, says Dr Khandelwal. 

According to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation, currently, about one in 833 men will develop breast cancer in their lifetime. For women, it is one in eight. However, the charity says that because male breast cancer is so rare, it makes it "uniquely challenging".

In fact, a study, published in the JAMA Oncology, found that the rate of mortality from breast cancer was 19% higher in men than in women. This was based on mortality data from 18 lakh women and 16,025 men who had breast cancer. The BCRF attributes it to a "lack of research and awareness among men and clinicians".

Another study found that over the last 30 years, survival rates for male breast cancer have not improved as it has for breast cancer in women. 

Breast Cancer Symptoms In Men Can Be Similar To Those In Women

Breast cancer symptoms in both males and females can be similar, says Dr Khandelwal. These include:

• Hard breast lumps 
• Nipple discharge, which is usually bloody
• Redness or flaky skin in the breast
• Irritation or dimpling of the breast

Do Not Confuse Breast Cancer With Gynaecomastia

Research suggests recognising breast cancer masses in males is easier than in females because of the smaller breast sizes. However, there is a greater probability of confusing breast cancer with gynaecomastia, says Dr Khandelwal. 

Gynecomastia is a condition characterised by the enlargement of male breast tissue and can result from hormonal imbalances, certain medications, or underlying health issues, leading to a more breast-like appearance in men.

It is important to not assume breast growth as simply benign gynecomastia, as it can often lead to delayed breast cancer diagnosis and high mortality. Therefore, the key is to visit a doctor and get oneself examined. 

Also Read: Breast Cancer Vs. Breast Cysts: How To Distinguish Between The Lumps?

Risk Factors To Consider

Many factors can increase the risk of male breast cancer. These include:

• Alcohol consumption
• A liver disease
• A gene mutation, like BRCA - if this is mutated, then there is a higher risk of breast cancer

In addition, another genetic abnormality is Klinefelter syndrome, which can increase breast cancer risk in men, says Dr Khandelwal. Klinefelter syndrome is a genetic condition in males, typically caused by an extra X chromosome (XXY instead of the usual XY). It can lead to physical and developmental differences, including reduced fertility, small testes, and potential hormonal imbalances. 

Conclusion

Male breast cancer, while uncommon, can still occur in men. Older adults, people who have a family history of breast cancer, those with inherited gene mutations, individuals with liver disease and obese people should be more vigilant about their wellness and must get regular screenings done, especially if there are any noticeable changes in the breast. Early diagnosis is the best way to receive effective treatment and to improve quality of life with cancer.