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An Overview of Male Breast Cancer
Breast cancer is normally linked to women, but it affects men too, though it is notably more uncommon. Male breast cancer makes up less than 1% of all breast cancer cases. It usually happens in men aged 60 to 70 years old, but younger men can also develop breast cancer (Shockney, 2024).
Male breast cancer starts in the tiny amount of breast tissue men have behind their nipples. A family history of breast cancer, genetic mutations (such as BRCA1 or BRCA2), radiation exposure, and conditions causing high oestrogen levels, such as obesity, liver disease, or Klinefelter syndrome, are risk factors for male breast cancer (Uscher, 2024).
Symptoms may include a painless lump near the nipple, nipple discharge, nipple inversion, or skin changes around the breast area, like dimpling or redness. Initial diagnosis notably improves treatment results, making awareness of these symptoms crucial for urgent medical attention at Pantai Hospitals.
What are the Risk Factors and Causes of Male Breast Cancer?
Some factors increase the possibility of men developing breast cancer:
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Age |
The risk elevates as one ages, especially for men over 60. |
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Genetic Mutations |
BRCA1 and BRCA2 gene mutations can significantly increase the risk. |
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Family History |
The possibility increases if one has close relatives with breast cancer. |
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Hormonal Imbalances |
Some medical conditions or medications cause higher oestrogen levels. |
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Radiation Exposure |
Previous radiation treatment to the chest can increase risk. |
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Lifestyle Factors |
Overconsumption of alcohol, obesity, and an inactive lifestyle are connected to elevated risk. |
Knowing these risk factors can help direct preventive measures and encourage those at risk to go for frequent health checks.
What are the Diagnosis and Treatment Options for Male Breast Cancer?
Diagnosis and Treatment Options for Male Breast Cancer
Initial and precise diagnosis is important for effective treatment and enhanced prognosis in male breast cancer. The diagnostic process usually starts with a detailed evaluation by a doctor and includes a few methods:
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Physical Examination |
During this early step, a doctor assesses any obvious lumps carefully, abnormal skin changes like dimpling or redness, and any nipple discharge. Initial detection of these physical symptoms can notably impact treatment results. |
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Mammogram or Ultrasound |
Imaging tests like mammograms or ultrasounds are necessary for identifying abnormalities inside the breast tissue. A mammogram, an X-ray of the breast, is specifically effective in detecting tinier lumps or calcifications, while ultrasound can tell the difference between solid tumours and cysts filled with fluid. |
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Biopsy |
A biopsy is still the definitive way to diagnose breast cancer. It requires an extraction of a tiny sample of suspicious breast tissue or cells, which is then examined under a microscope to determine the presence and type of cancer. Biopsy techniques vary; fine-needle aspiration, core needle biopsy, or surgical biopsy may be conducted depending on the specific clinical circumstances. |
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Genetic Testing |
Since male breast cancer is normally connected to genetic factors, genetic testing for mutations, specifically in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes, may be recommended. Such testing can benefit men with a family history of breast or ovarian cancer, enabling more focused monitoring and preventative measures. |
Treatment strategies notably vary depending on the cancer's stage and certain features, but normally involve:
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Surgery |
Removing the cancerous tissue surgically is usually the first-line treatment. Most men opt for a mastectomy when diagnosed with breast cancer—the complete removal of the breast tissue, occasionally along with nearby lymph nodes, to guarantee comprehensive removal. |
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Radiation Therapy |
Radiation therapy is usually conducted following surgery, using targeted, high-energy rays to destroy residual cancer cells and decrease the risk of recurrence. This approach is specifically helpful if the cancer is advanced or if it has travelled to the lymph nodes. |
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Chemotherapy |
During chemotherapy, medications are given intravenously or orally to kill cancer cells all throughout the body. It can be used as an additional treatment after surgery to eliminate any last cancer cells or as neoadjuvant therapy before surgery to decrease tumour size. |
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Hormone Therapy |
Many male breast cancers are hormone receptor-positive, this means their growth is stimulated by hormones like oestrogen. Hormone therapies, such as drugs and tamoxifen, function by blocking or decreasing the body’s hormone levels to prevent the growth of cancer and recurrence. |
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Targeted Therapy |
Specifically developed medications, like trastuzumab, target particular genetic characteristics of the cancer cells, like the HER2 protein. This targeted approach is good in treating cancers showing HER2 positivity, notably enhancing treatment effectiveness and patient prognosis. |
What is the Importance of Seeking Early Medical Advice?
Although male breast cancer is a rare occurrence, it is necessary to seek medical advice if you see any abnormal symptoms, regardless of how small they may appear. Prolonged diagnosis usually leads to more advanced cancer stages, decreasing available treatment options and success rates.
Talking about your family history and genetic risk to a doctor can lead to preventive strategies or initial screening, particularly if you have known risk factors. Awareness and early intervention are important in enhancing survival rates.
Schedule an Appointment at Pantai Hospitals
Male breast cancer in Malaysia is a rare but severe condition that needs urgent medical attention. Identifying the symptoms, knowing the risk factors, and seeking medical advice early on can make a life-saving difference.
At Pantai Hospitals, we provide state-of-the-art diagnostic and treatment services for breast cancer, supported by a team of professional oncologists and advanced technology. Your health is our priority. If you have worries or notice any symptoms, do not delay and book your appointment with Pantai Hospitals today for a comprehensive evaluation and tailored care. You may also book an appointment via our website or download our MyHealth360 application, which can be obtained from Google Play Store or Apple App Store.
Pantai Hospitals have been accredited by the Malaysian Society for Quality in Health (MSQH) for its commitment to patient safety and service quality.
