When people think of breast cancer, they usually think it only affects women. But men also have breast tissue, and though male breast cancer is rare, it is real and serious. Globally, it accounts for less than 1% of all breast cancer cases. In India, awareness is very low, which often leads to late diagnosis and higher risk of complications. Most men do not know that they can develop this disease, and many dismiss early symptoms as minor issues.
Dr Chirag Bhandari, Men’s Sexual Health Expert and Founder of the Institute of Andrology and Sexual Health (IASH), explains that ignorance and stigma make male breast cancer a silent but dangerous threat. In a survey conducted in New Delhi, only 19% of men were aware that breast cancer can occur in males. The remaining 81% assumed it was only a woman’s disease. This lack of knowledge often results in men ignoring warning signs until the cancer has progressed.
The early symptoms of male breast cancer are similar to those in women. These include a lump or swelling in the chest or breast area, pain or tenderness, nipple retraction or inversion, nipple discharge (which can be clear, bloody, or milky), and skin changes such as dimpling, thickening, or redness. Dr Bhandari warns that these signs should never be ignored. Because the disease is uncommon in men, symptoms are often mistaken for fat deposits, cysts, or muscle strain, delaying diagnosis.
Certain men are at higher risk. Male breast cancer commonly affects men in their 50s or 60s. Those with a family history of breast cancer, especially with BRCA2 gene mutations, are more vulnerable. Other risk factors include prior radiation exposure, hormonal therapy, liver disease, obesity, and genetic conditions like Klinefelter syndrome, which cause hormonal imbalances. Awareness of these risk factors can help men seek timely screening and medical advice.
Early detection is critical for successful treatment of male breast cancer. When diagnosed at an early stage, survival rates are high. Unfortunately, many men seek medical help late, often when the cancer has already spread. Diagnosis typically involves imaging tests such as ultrasound and mammography, followed by a biopsy to confirm the type and stage of cancer.
Treatment for men is similar to that for women and depends on the cancer’s type and stage. Surgery is usually the first step, followed by radiation therapy to remove any remaining cancer cells. Chemotherapy or hormone therapy may also be recommended. Timely treatment significantly improves outcomes, highlighting why awareness is so important.
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Dr Bhandari emphasizes that education and awareness can save lives. Men should understand that any lump, swelling, nipple discharge, or skin change in the breast area is a warning sign and requires immediate medical consultation. Ignoring these symptoms or feeling embarrassed can be dangerous. Regular self-checks, knowledge of family history, and prompt evaluation by a doctor are key strategies to detect the disease early.
Despite being rare, male breast cancer has serious consequences if missed. Silence and stigma should not prevent men from taking action. Early recognition of symptoms, awareness of personal risk factors, and timely medical intervention can make a life-saving difference. Men must understand that breast cancer is not a woman-only disease; it is a health issue that requires attention, care, and early diagnosis.
In conclusion, male breast cancer, though uncommon, is a real threat that deserves awareness. Recognizing early symptoms, knowing risk factors, and seeking timely medical care are essential for survival. Society needs to break the stigma around men’s breast health, and men must be encouraged to monitor their breast tissue, report unusual changes, and prioritize their health. Awareness, vigilance, and education can significantly reduce the risk of late-stage diagnosis and improve treatment outcomes for men.
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