Breast Cancer in Men

What is breast cancer in men?

Breast cancer is a malignant tumor that starts from cells of the breast. A malignant tumor is a group of cancer cells that may invade surrounding tissues or spread (metastasize) to distant areas of the body. Breast cancer occurs mainly in women, but men can get it, too. Many people do not realize that men have breast tissue and that they can develop breast cancer.

Like all cells of the body, a man's breast duct cells can undergo cancerous changes. But breast cancer is less common in men because their breast duct cells are less developed than those of women and because their breast
cells are not constantly exposed to the growth-promoting effects of female hormones.

Types of breast cancer in men

• Ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS)
• Infiltrating (or invasive) ductal carcinoma (IDC)
• Infiltrating (or invasive) lobular carcinoma (ILC)
• Lobular carcinoma in situ (LCIS)
• Paget disease of the nipple

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Risk Factors

• Aging
• Family history of breast cancer
• Inherited gene mutations
• Klinefelter syndrome
• Radiation exposure
• Alcohol
• Liver disease
• Estrogen treatment
• Obesity
• Conditions affecting the testicles
• Certain occupations

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Signs and symptoms

Men need to know that breast cancer is not limited to only women. Possible signs of breast cancer to watch for include:

• a lump or swelling, which is usually (but not always) painless
• skin dimpling or puckering
• nipple retraction (turning inward)
• redness or scaling of the nipple or breast skin
• discharge from the nipple

Your Feelings

It is often very difficult to find information and support when you are diagnosed with a rare cancer. Men find that they experience many different emotions, including anger, resentment, guilt, anxiety and fear. Some men find it difficult or embarrassing to talk about their breast cancer, especially as it more commonly affects women. These are all normal reactions, and are part of the process many people go through in trying to come to terms with their illness.
Some men find it helpful to talk things over with their doctor or nurse, or with one of our support service nurses. Close friends and family members can also offer support.