Breast Cancer in Males

Although extremely rare, breast cancer will kill hundreds of men by the end of this year. If the disease is compared at similar stages of growth, men and women have the same survival rate. However, because the men are reluctant to report changes and problems associated with their breasts, and as there is little tissue beneath their breasts, the condition spreads faster and the cancer is diagnosed a bit later, increasing the risk of fatality.

When young boys and men notice a growth of breast, they try to ignore it. Most of the time doctors too consider it to be gynaecomastia, a harmless condition of enlargement of breast in males. If this persists for months and continues to grow, then the person goes to the doctor for removal of the mass. It would be too late by that time.

Occurrence :

Men with increased amounts of oestrogen are at a higher risk. There are several reasons for increased oestrogen, the most common being liver disease. For this reason, alcoholics are believed to be more susceptible.

Men with a genetic disorder that produces an extra sex chromosome also are at a higher risk.

Men with gynecomastia present with enlargement of the male mammary glands are at a risk. This is secondary to increased oestrogen levels. However, mild gynecomastia can occur in normal adolescence and it is not harmful.

Men with a family history of breast cancer are also at a risk. About 20 percent of men with breast cancer have close male or female relatives with the disease.

Treatment :

Treatment differs in men. Once diagnosed, treatment is usually simple and less embarrassing for men than it is for women. The breast mass is much smaller in males and there is not much psychological connection to it in men. Majority of the male breast cancer is treated by full mastectomy or removal of the breast.

Prognosis :

Survival rate of breast cancer in males diagnosed within five years of disease development is 97 percent. Men who notice lumps, dimpling, discharge, or changes in the size of their breasts should bring it to the attention of their doctor. An increased awareness on the part of doctor and patient is essential for survival.