Can Men Get Breast Cancer? What Seniors in Springfield Should Know

Men can develop breast cancer, but it's rare. However, early detection is essential since most men ignore symptoms, which results in later-stage diagnoses. They should learn to recognize symptoms, such as chest lumps, nipple changes, or discharge.

According to Breastcancer.org, every year, breast cancer accounts for about 30% of all new cancer cases in US women. It's one of the deadliest diseases for women, which makes aging and cancer education crucial.

You may have noticed that all the attention is on women. But can men get breast cancer too? As part of senior health awareness in Springfield, MO, older adults should find out the answer to this question.

Read on to see what information you should know about breast cancer in men.

Can Men Get Breast Cancer?

Yes, men can definitely get breast cancer. Both genders are born with small amounts of breast tissue, and these have ducts, which are where cancer can form.

It's true that male breast tissue doesn't develop like it does in women, so there's not much there. However, the tissue can still undergo cancerous changes. The types of breast cancer that men can get are:

• Invasive ductal carcinoma (IDC)
• Ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS)
• Invasive lobular carcinoma
• Paget's disease of the nipple

The CDC says that male breast cancer accounts for around 1% of all breast cancer cases. This makes it very rare, but that doesn't make it any less serious.

In fact, since men don't often realize they're at risk, they tend to ignore symptoms. As a result, they're more likely to be diagnosed at an advanced stage.

What Are the Signs of Male Breast Cancer?

The male breast cancer signs can be subtle at first, so it's important that you're on the lookout for them. They include:

• A painless lump or thickening in the breast tissue
• Changes in the nipple (such as inversion, scaling, redness, or ulceration)
• Discharge from the nipple (can be clear, yellow, or bloody)
• Swelling or changes in skin texture over the chest (such as dimpling or puckering)
• Swollen lymph nodes in the armpit or near the collarbone

If you notice any of these symptoms, then it's absolutely imperative that you see your doctor.

What Puts Men at Risk for Breast Cancer?

There are several things that put men at risk for breast cancer, but the main one is age. As we get older, our bodies become less efficient at repairing damage, so the chances of having cell mutations increase. This is why most cases are diagnosed in men who are between 60 and 70.

Here are the other risk factors:

• Family history and genetics (BRCA1 and BRCA2 gene mutations)
• Hormonal imbalances (conditions that increase estrogen levels)
• Radiation exposure (previous radiation therapy to the chest)
• Klinefelter syndrome (higher estrogen, lower testosterone)

Why Early Detection Matters

Early detection matters because it dramatically improves survival rates and treatment outcomes. Just like how you get the shingles vaccine to significantly lower your chances of getting the infection, seniors need early detection to ensure they have the best survival rates possible. Plus, early detection means using less invasive procedures.

Standard treatment options include:

• Surgery (mastectomy)
• Radiation therapy
• Chemotherapy
• Hormone therapy

How to Reduce the Risk of Male Breast Cancer

Part of our men's wellness tips is to stay on top of prevention so that the chances of breast cancer developing are as low as possible.

The main thing you should focus on is leading a healthy lifestyle, as these will provide overall protective factors that can help you thrive. These are the lifestyle choices you should make:

• Maintain a healthy weight (this can balance hormone levels)
• Limit alcohol intake (excessive drinking can raise estrogen levels)
• Exercise regularly to support your immune health
• Get genetic counseling if breast cancer runs in your family
• Treat underlying conditions such as liver disease or hormonal disorders

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What Is Stage 3 Breast Cancer in Men?

Stage 3 breast cancer means that the cancer has spread beyond the breast, and it's in the nearby lymph nodes or chest tissue. However, it hasn't spread to distant organs yet.

The treatment for stage 3 cancer is more intensive, and you'll probably need a combination of:

• Surgery
• Chemotherapy
• Radiator
• Targeted therapies

Can Men Get Breast Cancer Without a Lump?

Yes, men can get breast cancer without a noticeable lump. You may experience changes such as:

• Nipple inversion
• Redness
• Discharge

Is Male Breast Cancer Hereditary?

Male breast cancer can be hereditary. You'll have an increased risk if you have mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes or other hereditary cancer syndromes. We'd recommend genetic testing if you have a strong family history of the following cancers:

• Breast
• Ovarian
• Prostate

How Is Male Breast Cancer Diagnosed?

Male breast cancer is typically diagnosed through a physical exam, imaging (mammograms or ultrasounds), and a biopsy, which confirms the presence of cancer cells. To determine which treatment options are right for you, your doctor may also order blood tests and genetic testing afterward.

Are Treatment Options Different for Men and Women?

Most treatment options are similar for both genders, such as surgery, chemotherapy, and hormone therapy. However, since men usually have less breast tissue, surgery for men often means the complete removal of the breast (mastectomy).

What Is the Survival Rate for Men With Breast Cancer?

According to the American Cancer Society (ACS), the 5-year survival rate for localized cancer is 97%. This drops to 86% for regional stages and 31% for distant stages.

This is why it's vital to get memory care support. Early detection means much higher survival rates.

Be Proactive About Your Health

So can men get breast cancer? They can, but it's pretty rare, as under 1% of breast cancer cases are in men.

However, this doesn't mean you should be complacent. Instead, you should lead a healthy lifestyle to lower your chances of developing breast cancer, and be aware of breast changes too. If you notice anything that's unusual, don't hesitate to speak to your doctor, as early detection is key.

Contact us today to get more information about senior living in Springfield, MO. Springhouse Village offers our residents daily continental breakfasts and one dinner a week.