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Breast cancer is often perceived as a disease that predominantly affects women, but it is essential to recognize that men can also develop this condition. Although male breast cancer is rare, accounting for less than 1% of all breast cancer cases, awareness and understanding are crucial for early detection and treatment.
Understanding Male Breast Cancer
Male breast cancer typically arises from the small amount of breast tissue that men possess. This tissue consists of ducts and lobules, similar to those found in women, although much less developed. The most common type of male breast cancer is invasive ductal carcinoma (IDC), which begins in the milk ducts and can spread to surrounding tissues. Other types include invasive lobular carcinoma (ILC) and ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS), although these are less common in men.
Symptoms to Watch For
The symptoms of male breast cancer can mirror those experienced by women. Key indicators include:
– A painless lump: Often the first noticeable sign, typically found near the nipple.
– Changes in the skin: This may involve dimpling, puckering, or a change in colour.
– Nipple alterations: Such as retraction or discharge.
– Swollen lymph nodes: Especially under the arms.
Men should consult a healthcare provider if they notice any unusual changes in their breast tissue.
Risk Factors
Several factors can increase the likelihood of developing male breast cancer:
– Age: Most cases occur in men over 50.
– Genetic predisposition: Family history of breast cancer or mutations in genes like BRCA2 can elevate risk.
– Hormonal imbalances: Conditions that increase estrogen levels, such as obesity or liver disease, are linked to higher risks.
– Klinefelter syndrome: A rare genetic condition that results in an extra X chromosome that increases susceptibility.
Diagnosis and Treatment
Diagnosis typically involves a physical examination followed by imaging tests like mammograms or ultrasounds. A biopsy may be performed to confirm the presence of cancer cells.
Treatment options for male breast cancer often include:
– Surgery: Mastectomy (removal of one or both breasts) is common due to the limited amount of breast tissue in men. In some cases, lumpectomy may be an option for small tumours.
– Radiation therapy: Used post-surgery to reduce recurrence risk.
– Chemotherapy and hormone therapy: These may be recommended based on the tumour’s characteristics.
The prognosis for men diagnosed with breast cancer has improved significantly over the years. While survival rates are generally lower than those for women—partly due to delayed diagnosis—the five-year survival rate for men is approximately 87% when detected early.
Conclusion
Awareness about male breast cancer is vital for early detection and effective treatment. Men should not hesitate to discuss any concerns regarding changes in their breast tissue with healthcare professionals. By breaking down the stigma surrounding this condition, we can encourage more men to seek help and improve outcomes for those affected by this rare but serious disease.
Bio
M Nithya Kruthi is a bioinformatician at NuGenomics, where she works on the analysis of genomic data to advance research in health and disease. She has contributed to scientific publications and is dedicated to leveraging bioinformatics for scientific discovery and improving human health outcomes.