What does breast cancer in men look like? Signs and symptoms to watch out for

Breast cancer are prevalent in women, but men can be at risk too

While we're all aware of the breast cancer risks in women, we often neglect the possibilities of breast cancer in men. Although rare, men can also develop cancerous breasts. Clinical evidence suggests that less than 1% of all breast cancers occur in men. About 2,650 men are expected to be diagnosed with breast cancer, and an estimated 530 men are expected to die from it. So, even if the chances are slim, there is no way one should strike out the possibility and should make oneself aware of the signs and symptoms of male breast cancer.

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Male breast cancer is most common in older men

According to the Centre for Disease Control and Prevention, "The risk for breast cancer increases with age." Most breast cancers are found after age 50, the health agency suggests. That said, regular breast screenings could be an efficient way to detect any signs of breast cancer risks in men.

Are there any symptoms to watch out for?

There are many signs of breast cancer in men. As per the American Cancer Society (ACS), below are some of the common symptoms of male breast cancer.

- A painless lump in one breast

- Nipple retraction, ulceration, and discharge

- Dimpling of breast

- Discoloration of the breast or nipple skin

While the above mentioned signs are the early warning signs of breast cancer, there are some signs that can tell that the cancer is spreading. Swelling in the lymph nodes, breast pain and bone pain can mean something more serious.

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What type of breast cancers can be diagnosed in men and how?

The CDC suggests three types of breast cancer that can be detected and diagnosed in men.

- Invasive ductal carcinoma: This type of breast cancer starts in the ducts and then grows outside the ducts into other parts of the breast tissues.

- Invasive lobular carcinoma: The cancer cells begin in the lobules and then spread to the closely-knitted breast tissues.

- Ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS): These may lead to invasive breast cancer, since they're only in the lining of the ducts, and have not spread to other breast tissues.

Breast cancers in men and women can be diagnosed with the help of mammogram, ultrasound, a nipple discharge test or a biopsy. Regular self-examination of the breast can also help with diagnosis.

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Do genes play a role?

Breast cancer can also be an outcome of genetic mutations. A strong family history of breast cancer can increase a man's risk of developing the same condition. Men who inherit abnormal BRCA1 or BRCA2 genes may have an increased risk of male breast cancer. However, genetic mutations are not the only factor that could lead to breast cancer in men.

Treatment

Depending on the size of the tumour, the doctor is likely to suggest the treatments. Surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, hormone therapy, and targeted therapy are some of available treatments for breast cancer.