Breast cancer is typically considered something that just impacts ladies, however men can get it in unusual cases.

Table of Contents

About Breast Cancer in Men

It normally occurs in men over 60, however can really sometimes impact more youthful men. It grows in the percentage of breast tissue men have behind their nipples.

Symptoms of breast cancer in men

The signs of breast cancer in men consist of:

a swelling in the breast — this is normally difficult, pain-free and does stagnate around within the breast
the nipple turning inwards
fluid exuding from the nipple ( nipple discharge), which might be spotted with blood
an aching or rash around the nipple that does not disappear
the nipple or surrounding skin ending up being hard, red or inflamed
little bumps in the underarm ( inflamed glands)

When to see your GP

See your GP if you have:

a swelling in your breast
any other stressing signs, such as nipple discharge
a history of breast cancer (in men or ladies) in members of your household and you’re stressed over your opportunities of getting it

It’s really not likely you have cancer, however it’s finest to get your signs inspected. Your GP will analyze your breast and can refer you for tests and scans for breast cancer if required.

If you do not have signs however have a clear household history of breast cancer, your GP might refer you to a hereditary professional to discuss your danger of getting it.

There are some acquired genes that increase your danger of cancer and a blood test can be done to look for these. Read about screening for cancer danger genes.

Treatments for breast cancer in men

The treatment for breast cancer in men depends upon how far the cancer has actually spread out.

Possible treatments consist of:

surgical treatment to get rid of the afflicted breast tissue and nipple ( mastectomy) and a few of the glands in your underarm
radiotherapy — where radiation is utilized to eliminate cancer cells
chemotherapy — where cancer medication is utilized to eliminate cancer cells
other medications that assist stop breast cancer growing– consisting of tamoxifen and trastuzumab (Herceptin)

Many men have actually surgical treatment followed by 1 or more of the other treatments. This can assist stop the cancer returning in the future.

Outlook for breast cancer in men

The outlook for breast cancer in men differs depending upon how far it has actually spread out by the time it’s identified.

It might be possible to treat breast cancer if it’s discovered early.
A treatment is much less most likely if the cancer is discovered after it has actually spread out beyond the breast. In these cases, treatment can ease your signs and assist you live longer.
Speak to your breast care nurse if you wish to understand more about the outlook for your cancer.

Causes of breast cancer in men

The specific reason for breast cancer in men is not understood, however there are some things that increase your danger of getting it.

These consist of:

genes and household history– acquiring malfunctioning variations of genes called BRCA1 or BRCA2 boosts your danger of breast cancer
conditions that can increase the level of oestrogen in the body — consisting of weight problems, Klinefelter syndrome and scarring of the liver (cirrhosis)
previous radiotherapy to the chest location

It’s not particular that you can do anything to minimize your danger, however consuming a well balanced diet plan, slimming down if you’re obese and not drinking excessive alcohol might assist.