What Is Breast Cancer in Men?

Most people associate breast cancer with women. Unfortunately, breast cancer is not contained just to women. Men can also get breast cancer, even though approximately 99% of all breast cancer cases occur in women. But one question that many men have is whether men with man boobs, or Gynecomastia, are at a greater risk of developing breast cancer than men who do not have man boobs.

While women are more susceptible to breast cancer, the fact remains that they are also more likely to survive it than a man will, simply because they are more likely to seek treatment earlier. Men simply are not aware of the risk that they have for breast cancer, however men who have man boobs often fear it.

About 30% cases of male breast cancer are due to heredity, compared to just 5% to 10% in females. Breast cancer genes - BRCA1 and BRCA2 can increase the risk of men developing breast cancer, if the genes show defects or mutation. Genetic mutation is usually not inherited, and is acquired during the course of your life. Radiation therapies or operations may be one cause for these mutations.

Breast cancer in men is diagnosed in the same way as women are diagnosed. With regard to treatment, there are a number of treatments available to men who have the disease. These include surgery (modified mastectomy), radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and hormone therapy. Studies have also shown that the survival rates of men with breast cancer are similar to the survival rates among women.

Research has shown that approximately 40% of the men who develop man boobs will also develop breast cancer. Those are staggering numbers, and because that number is so high, it is vital that any male who develops man boobs seek treatment from his health care provider. It is also important for any man, even if he doesn’t have man boobs, to be aware of the signs of breast cancer.

Family history does play a role, even if you do not develop Gynecomastia. Approximately 20% of the men who develop breast cancer at some point in life have a family history of breast cancer - from either male or female relatives. In other words, if a man’s mother had breast cancer, his risk for developing breast cancer is higher than the average man’s - regardless of whether or not he has man boobs.

Leading a healthy life during treatment is quintessential. Abstinence from alcohol and curing weight problems go a long way in both prevention and cure of breast cancer. You will always have family and friends for all the help and support you need, and you should never stop yourself from availing that help. Rest assured, you will lead a perfectly happy life thereafter.