The truth about breast cancer in men

Although breast cancer is most prevalent in females, men do get breast cancer too. In the USA, this year, it is estimated that approximately 2,800 men will be diagnosed with breast cancer and 530 will die. In India, the incidence is lower than in western countries but over the last few years the numbers are increasing While this percentage is still small, men should also check themselves periodically by doing a breast self-exam while in the shower and reporting any changes to their physicians. (Source- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) National Cancer Institute)
Breast cancer in men is usually detected as a hard lump underneath the nipple and areola. Men carry a 19% higher mortality rate than women do, primarily because awareness among men is lower and men are less likely to assume a lump is breast cancer, leading to delays in seeking treatment.
The most common symptom is a painless hard lump below the nipple which most men ignore considering as gynecomastia. Sometimes, they get ulcer over nipple, which becomes stage 3 disease.
Male breast cancer is more aggressive than female. It’s mostly related to hereditary causes like genetic predisposition and, the BRACA gene and is associated with other hereditary syndromes. The treatment remains the same as delayed breast cancer. But most males do land up in radical mastectomy instead of breast conservation surgery compared to females.
As per the American Cancer Society, there is no known way to prevent them. But, there are some things a man can do to lower his risk of breast cancer. Get to and stay at a healthy weight: Both increased body weight and weight gain as an adult are linked with a higher risk of breast cancer. Be physically active: Many studies have shown that moderate to vigorous physical activity is linked with lower breast cancer risk, as well as many other types of cancer. The American Cancer Society recommends that adults get at least 150 to 300 minutes of moderate-intensity or 75 to 150 minutes of vigorous-intensity activity each week (or a combination of these), preferably spread throughout the week. Getting to or going over the upper limit of 300 minutes is ideal. This is seen in all types of cancer but the benefits are more with breast cancer as obesity and breast cancer have a direct relationship & it’s outcome also. Avoid or limit alcohol: Alcohol use increases the risk of breast cancer. Even low levels of alcohol intake have been linked with an increase in risk. Alcohol use is linked with several cancers and is the third most important preventable risk factor for cancer. It is best not to drink alcohol. For men who do drink, they should have no more than 2 alcoholic drinks a day.

Authored by: Dr. Sandip Bipte, Consultant - Breast Surgery, P.D. Hinduja Hospital & MRC, Khar

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