Male Breast Cancer: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment

Men's Breast Cancer: Early Detection and Risk Factors

Reading time : 1 minute, Discovery Chepe Id-674-SAL
Published in 04-19-2025

Male breast cancer is a rare but serious condition. While it accounts for less than 1% of all breast cancer cases, it should not be overlooked. Understanding the warning signs and risk factors can lead to earlier diagnosis and improved outcomes.

What Causes Male Breast Cancer?

Breast cancer in men occurs when breast tissue cells begin to grow uncontrollably. Although men have smaller amounts of breast tissue, these cells can still become cancerous.

Main causes include:
Genetic mutations: Particularly mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes.
Hormonal imbalances: Excess estrogen levels can contribute to cancer cell growth.
Family history: A strong history of breast cancer can significantly raise the risk.

Risk Factors for Male Breast Cancer

Several factors can increase the likelihood of developing breast cancer in men:

Age: Most male breast cancer cases are diagnosed between the ages of 60 and 70.
Family history: Especially if there are known BRCA gene mutations.
Liver disease: Conditions like cirrhosis can disrupt hormone levels.
Estrogen exposure: Long-term hormone treatments or imbalances can be a trigger.
Klinefelter syndrome: A genetic condition where men have higher estrogen levels.
Obesity: Fat tissue increases estrogen production.
Previous chest radiation: Especially for other cancers.

Diagnosis and Treatment Options for Male Breast Cancer

Symptoms of Breast Cancer in Men

Early detection is crucial. Some of the most common symptoms include:

Lump or thickening: Usually in the chest area, often painless.
Changes in skin texture: Dimpling, wrinkling, or redness.
Nipple discharge: Sometimes bloody.
Inverted nipple: Retraction or change in shape.
Pain in the chest area: Discomfort or tenderness.
Swollen lymph nodes: Especially in the armpit region.

Diagnosis

Doctors may use physical exams, mammograms, ultrasounds, biopsies, and genetic testing to confirm the presence and type of cancer.

Treatment Options

Treatment depends on the cancer stage and overall health of the patient. Common treatment options include:

Surgery: Mastectomy is often performed to remove affected breast tissue.
Radiation therapy: Used to eliminate remaining cancer cells.
Chemotherapy: Administered when cancer has spread.
Hormonal therapy: Especially for hormone-receptor-positive tumors.
Targeted therapy: Focuses on specific mutations like HER2.

Can Male Breast Cancer Be Prevented?

There is no guaranteed prevention, but you can reduce your risk by adopting a healthy lifestyle:

Maintain a healthy weight
Avoid excessive alcohol
Exercise regularly
Know your family history: and get genetic counseling if needed.

Additional Resources

For more detailed information, visit:
American Cancer Society - Male Breast Cancer
Breastcancer.org - Male Breast Cancer
NHS - Breast Cancer in Men

Do not ignore changes in your chest area ? early detection saves lives.

Male breast cancer may be rare, but awareness is the first step toward early diagnosis and successful treatment. Stay informed, monitor your health, and consult a doctor if you notice anything unusual.