FAQs About Breast Cancer in Males

Breast cancer is commonly thought of as a woman's disease. But, it's crucial to learn that even though they don't have milk-producing tissues, men are still at risk of it. Due to lack of awareness, it's often discovered at its later stage, which makes it harder to treat.

To spread awareness and knowledge of this disease, here are answers to 4 FAQs about breast cancer in males.  

How Common Is Breast Cancer in Males?

Research shows that 1% of breast cancer patients are men. But, because the disease is so common, that still amounts to 2,000 cases in the United States every year. For males, the lifetime risk of getting this ailment is approximately 1 in 883.

There's little information on male breast cancer, and the current treatment is still based on what experts have learned from curing women. But, with comprehensive research and oncology CE, doctors are learning more about how to deal with these cases.

What Are the Risk Factors?

Although experts don't completely understand what causes breast cancer in males yet, studies have found multiple factors that increase a man's risk of getting this disease. Much like women's cases, most of these are related to the body's sex hormone levels.
Some of them are: 

·        Aging
·        Family History of Breast Cancer
·        Inherited Gene Mutation
·        Klinefelter Syndrome
·        Radiation Exposure
·        Heavy Drinking
·        Liver Disease
·        Estrogen Treatment
·        Obesity
·        Testicular Condition

But, having one or more of these attributes doesn't automatically mean you'll get breast cancer. Some men with these characteristics were never afflicted with the disease. But, plenty of males with the condition haven't exhibited any of the mentioned risk factors.

What Are the Signs and Symptoms?

Men exhibit the same breast cancer symptoms as women. Sometimes, it can spread through lymph nodes under the arm or collar bone and result in swelling. Early detection of the disease increases treatment options and reduces the risk of it getting worse.

Some signs and symptoms to look out for are: 

·        A Lump or Swelling (often painless, but not always)
·        Dimpling or Puckering Skin
·        Discharge From the Nipple
·        Nipple Retraction
·        Redness or Scaling of the Nipple or Breast Skin

These symptoms aren't always due to cancer. But, if you notice any of these, have it checked by a doctor immediately. 

How Can It Be Treated?

The most common cure for males is a mastectomy, the surgical removal of all breast tissues. Depending on the stage, patients can also undergo radiation treatment or chemotherapy.

Spreading awareness about breast cancer in males can lower the cases and potentially save lives. Oncology CME also plays a big part in developing research and helping physicians discover new and effective ways to treat it.

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