Breast Cancer in Men-Risk Factors

Breast Cancer in Men: Understanding Causes and Treatment

Breast Cancer in Men-Risk Factors, Healthnews // Freepik 

Risk Factors, Symptoms, and Options for Men with Breast Cancer

Can a man get breast cancer?

Healthnews: The answer is Yes, men can get breast cancer. Although breast cancer is much more common in women, men have breast tissue and can develop breast cancer. In fact, breast cancer in men is rare, accounting for less than 1% of all breast cancers.

The symptoms of breast cancer in men are similar to those in women and may include a lump or swelling in the breast, nipple discharge, a change in the size or shape of the breast, and skin changes around the breast area. Men who notice any of these symptoms should seek medical attention.

Like women, men have a small amount of breast tissue, and breast cancer can develop in any part of this tissue. Men with a family history of breast cancer, certain genetic mutations, and exposure to radiation or high levels of estrogen may be at a higher risk of developing breast cancer.

Understanding Breast Cancer in Men: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

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The causes

Breast cancer in men can be caused by a variety of factors, including:

• Age: As men get older, their risk of breast cancer increases.
• Family history: Men with a family history of breast cancer may be at a higher risk of developing the disease.
• Genetic mutations: Some genetic mutations, such as BRCA2, have been linked to an increased risk of breast cancer in men.
• Hormonal imbalances: Certain conditions that cause hormonal imbalances such as Klinefelter syndrome, a rare genetic condition that results in the presence of an extra X chromosome in males, can increase the risk of breast cancer in men.
• Exposure to radiation: Men who have been exposed to radiation, particularly to the chest area, may have an increased risk of developing breast cancer.
• Liver disease: Men with liver disease, such as cirrhosis, may have an increased risk of breast cancer because the liver plays a role in regulating hormone levels in the body.
• Obesity: Being overweight or obese has been linked to an increased risk of breast cancer in men.

While these factors may increase a man's risk of developing breast cancer, many men who develop the disease do not have any known risk factors. Regular breast cancer screenings and early detection are important for all men, especially those who may be at higher risk.

Breast Cancer in Men-Risk Factors,Healthnews // iStock 

symptoms

The symptoms of breast cancer in men can include:

• A lump or swelling in the breast tissue or under the nipple.
• Nipple discharge or retraction (turning inward).
• Changes in the size or shape of the breast.
• Skin dimpling or puckering.
• Redness or scaling of the skin on the breast or nipple.
• Inverted nipple.
• Ulceration or bleeding of the nipple.

To note that many of these symptoms can also be caused by other, less serious conditions. However, if you experience any of these symptoms or notice any changes in your breast tissue, it's important to see your doctor for an evaluation. Early detection is key to successful treatment of breast cancer in men.

Treatment method

The treatment for breast cancer in men depends on various factors, including the stage and location of the cancer, as well as the individual's overall health and personal preferences. Treatment options may include:

• Surgery: The most common treatment for breast cancer in men is surgery to remove the cancerous tissue. The type of surgery may include a lumpectomy (removal of the tumor and some surrounding tissue) or a mastectomy (removal of the entire breast). Lymph nodes in the armpit may also be removed if they are affected by cancer.
• Radiation therapy: Radiation therapy uses high-energy beams to kill cancer cells and is often used in combination with surgery. Radiation therapy may be given before or after surgery.
• Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy uses drugs to kill cancer cells and is often used in cases where the cancer has spread beyond the breast. Chemotherapy may be given before or after surgery.
• Hormone therapy: Hormone therapy may be used in cases where the cancer is hormone receptor-positive, meaning it uses hormones to grow. Hormone therapy works by blocking or suppressing the hormones that fuel the growth of the cancer cells.
• Targeted therapy: Targeted therapy uses drugs that target specific proteins in cancer cells to stop their growth and division.

Breast cancer is a disease that affects both men and women. Although breast cancer in men is rare, it is important for men to be aware of the risk factors and symptoms, and to seek medical attention if they notice any changes in their breast tissue. Early detection and treatment are key to successful outcomes.