Yes, Men Can Get Breast Cancer, Too

After a male breast cancer diagnosis, it’s not uncommon to hear (or to be the one to say), “I didn’t even know men could get breast cancer.” 

But they can, and the reason is simple: Men have breast tissue, too. It doesn’t usually develop the same way that it does in women, but that tissue can still undergo changes that ultimately lead to cancer.

Many men don’t even realize the risk, especially because male breast cancer makes up less than 1% of all breast cancer cases.

“It’s so uncommon in men that many ignore the signs,” says medical oncologist and hematologist Halle Moore, MD. “That can sometimes lead them to dismiss symptoms or delay seeking care.”

Warning signs to look out for

In men, breast cancer often develops underneath or around the nipple.

“The most common sign is a lump or area of skin thickening in the breast tissue,” Dr. Moore reports. “But men often think they’re just dealing with a cyst or something else that doesn’t require immediate attention.” 

Any lumps, pain or nipple changes warrant medical attention, she urges. Possible warning signs include:

• Pain or tenderness in the breast or nipple area
• Swollen or enlarged breast tissue
• Skin changes on the breast, like dimpling, redness or scaly patches
• Nipple changes, like turning inward
• Nipple discharge, which may look clear or bloody

If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, it doesn’t automatically mean cancer. Most breast lumps in men are benign, meaning they’re not cancerous. And there can be other explanations, too — like gynecomastia, a noncancerous condition that causes enlarged breast tissue in men.

But only a healthcare provider can say for certain.

“Regardless of what you think it may or may not be, any new lump or other unexplained breast change should be evaluated by a medical professional,” Dr. Moore reiterates.

Are some men at higher risk?

Certain factors can increase your risk of developing breast cancer.

• Age: Breast cancer most often affects men in their 60s and older. But men of all ages can develop it.
• Family history: Your risk of developing breast cancer is higher if you have blood relatives who have had the disease.
• Inherited genetic mutations: BRCA gene changes raise your risk of certain types of cancer, including breast cancer. Other gene mutations can, too.
• Other factors: If you have a condition that affects your hormone levels, or if you’ve had prior radiation exposure to your chest area, you may be at higher risk.

“As in women, breast cancer can develop in men who don't have any known risk factors,” Dr. Moore clarifies. “That’s why paying attention to symptoms is so important.”

When and why to seek care

Because breast cancer is often thought of as being a “women’s disease,” men sometimes hesitate to bring up breast symptoms with a healthcare provider. But if it is cancer, putting off that conversation only delays diagnosis and treatment.

“It’s always better to get answers than assume a symptom isn’t serious,” Dr. Moore emphasizes.

Plus, the earlier breast cancer is diagnosed, the more options are typically available for treatment.

“Breast cancer in men is diagnosed and treated much like breast cancer in women,” she continues. “It all depends on factors like the type and stage of the cancer and your overall health and preferences.” Treatment may involve:

• Surgery
• Radiation therapy
• Chemotherapy
• Hormone therapy
• Other targeted treatments

Make an appointment with your primary care provider or a healthcare provider if you notice a lump, pain, nipple changes, skin changes or any other unusual symptom in your breast or chest area.

“Breast cancer may be rare in men, but rare doesn’t mean impossible,” Dr. Moore says. “Knowing the signs and seeking care can help ensure that potential problems are found and addressed as early as possible.”