Breast Cancer in Men: What Seniors in Burlington Should Know

Breast cancer in men is rare but possible, and it's serious too. It often develops from genetic mutations, hormonal imbalances, or family history. By learning to recognize signs early (such as lumps, nipple changes, or discharge), you can greatly improve treatment outcomes.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), in 2022, there were 2.3 million women in the world who were diagnosed with breast cancer. But a little-known fact that should be spread for aging and cancer awareness is that men can get this disease too.

This means that all seniors in Burlington, WI should be educated on breast cancer, even men. When you know what to look for, then you'll have a much better chance at beating breast cancer. So read on to find out crucial information that everyone should know.

How Common Is Breast Cancer in Men?

The WHO says that around 0.5% to 1% of breast cancers occur in men. As you can see, that makes the disease extremely rare in men, but the reality is that no one is immune to it.

Since this cancer is so rare in men, they tend not to know much about it. As a result, many have delayed diagnoses, which then significantly impacts their outcomes.

This is why it's essential to make breast cancer part of men's wellness education.

What Are the Signs of Breast Cancer in Men?

These are the main male breast cancer symptoms you should be aware of:

• A lump or thickening in the breast tissue
• Changes in the nipple (e.g., inversion, redness, scaling, ulceration)
• Nipple discharge (sometimes bloody)
• Changes in breast skin (e.g., dimpling, puckering, orange peel-like texture)
• Swelling or a lump in the underarm area

If you notice any lumps or abnormal changes, report them to your doctor immediately. Breast cancer can spread a lot more quickly to nearby tissues in men than in women, so timely action is of the utmost importance.

Risk Factors for Breast Cancer in Men

There are a few risk factors that can increase your chances of getting breast cancer as a man, but age is the biggest one. Let's explore the others below.

Genetic Mutations

If you inherit mutations in the BRCA1 or BRCA2 genes, this significantly raises your breast cancer risk. You'll need genetic testing to determine if you have these mutations.

Family History

If any of the following family members have had breast cancer, this raises your risk:

• Mother
• Sister
• Daughter

If they were diagnosed at a young age, then your risk goes up even more.

Hormonal Imbalances

Elevated levels of estrogen can contribute to breast tissue growth, and therefore, it can raise your risk. Causes include:

• Obesity
• Liver disease
• Klinefelter syndrome
• Certain medications

Radiation Exposure and Other Lifestyle Factors

Radiation therapy to the chest can raise your risk. Other lifestyle factors that can do the same are heavy alcohol consumption and exposure to environmental toxins.

How Is Breast Cancer Diagnosed in Men?

Here are the ways that men can get breast cancer diagnosed:

• Clinical examination
• Mammogram or ultrasound
• Biopsy
• Hormone receptor and HER2 testing
• MRI or CT scans

Early detection for seniors is key. So a vital part of diagnosis is self-awareness of breast tissue changes. 

How Is Breast Cancer Treated in Men?

Typically, the treatment for male breast cancer is similar to that for women. The method chosen will depend on the stage, tumor type, and your health.

The primary treatment is usually a mastectomy. This is where the breast tissue, nipple, and possible nearby lymph nodes are removed.

After surgery, your doctor may recommend radiation therapy to kill any remaining cancer cells. This can reduce recurrence risk too.

Other options include:

• Chemotherapy
• Hormone therapy
• Targeted therapy

Usually, the best outcomes are from a multidisciplinary approach combining the above treatments.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can Men Prevent Breast Cancer?

There are no guarantees for preventing breast cancer, but there are steps you can take to reduce your risk. Our memory care health tips include:

• Maintaining a healthy weight
• Limiting your alcohol intake
• Managing liver health
• Avoiding unnecessary hormone exposure

Should Men Get Screened for Breast Cancer?

In general, routine screening isn't recommended for the male population since male breast cancer is so rare. However, if you have a strong family history and/or BRCA mutation, then you may need regular clinical exams or imaging.

Does Gynecomastia Increase Cancer Risk?

Gynecomastia is noncancerous breast enlargement in men. It doesn't directly cause cancer, but because you have more breast tissue, you'll have a higher risk of it. It may also be harder to notice unusual changes, so be proactive in detecting them.

Can Transgender Men Develop Breast Cancer?

Yes, transgender men who have not had top surgery (mastectomy) or are on long-term hormone therapy may still develop breast cancer. Regular monitoring will depend on your individual risk.

What Is the Survival Rate for Male Breast Cancer?

The American Cancer Society (ACS) says that the 5-year relative survival rate for male breast cancer ranges from 97% (localized) to 31% (distant). The earlier you detect the disease, the better your survival rate; it drops off significantly for later diagnoses.

Can Male Breast Cancer Recur After Treatment?

Yes, recurrence is entirely possible in either the same area or spread elsewhere in the body. This is why it's important to keep up with the following to help reduce the risk of recurrence:

• Follow-ups
• Healthy living
• Adherence to medication

Are There Support Groups for Men With Breast Cancer?

Yes. Many cancer organizations and hospitals have support groups specifically for men with breast cancer. You can get emotional support, education, and resources.

Stay on Top of Your Health

You've worked so hard to get to your retirement age, so you shouldn't let anything stand in your way of enjoying your golden years. Now that you understand more about breast cancer in men, you can be proactive about symptoms.

If you notice any, make sure to see your doctor promptly. With early diagnosis and treatment, you'll have a much better outcome.

For more information about senior living in Burlington, WI, contact us now. Arbor View has daily exercise classes so our residents stay both physically and mentally healthy.