An overlooked diagnosis: Understanding breast cancer risk in men
Understanding breast cancer risk in men
When most people hear the words breast cancer, they immediately think of women. While women account for the vast majority of breast cancer diagnoses, men can — and do — develop the disease.
The American Cancer Society reports that an estimated 2,670 men will be diagnosed with invasive breast cancer this year.
Though it accounts for less than 1% of all breast cancer cases, the true danger for men lies in awareness. Because men do not expect to get breast cancer, they routinely ignore early warning signs, assuming a lump is just a harmless cyst or a muscle pull. By the time they see a doctor, the cancer has often advanced or spread to the lymph nodes.
“Too many men dismiss changes in their chest because they don’t believe breast cancer is possible,” said Kelley Smith, a board-certified general surgeon at Penn Highlands Healthcare. “Awareness can be the difference between catching cancer early and facing a much more difficult battle later.”
Family history also plays an important role. Men with close relatives who have had breast cancer or those who carry inherited genetic mutations, such as BRCA1 or BRCA2, may have a significantly higher risk. Men should discuss their family medical history with their healthcare provider to determine whether additional screening or genetic counseling is appropriate.
The importance of mammograms
Mammograms have transformed breast cancer detection by identifying tumors long before they can be felt. For women, routine mammograms remain one of the most effective tools for detecting breast cancer at an early, more treatable stage.
Although mammograms are not routinely recommended for all men, they may be appropriate for men who have symptoms, a strong family history or genetic risk factors. In these cases, mammography can help detect abnormalities and guide further evaluation.
“Mammograms give us the opportunity to find cancers before they become larger or spread,” said Leah Smith, System Supervisor of Women’s Imaging at Penn Highlands Healthcare. “Early detection consistently provides patients with more treatment options and improves the chances of successful outcomes.”
Know the signs
Regardless of gender, everyone should be aware of the warning signs of breast cancer, including:
A lump or thickening in the breast or chest tissue
Changes in the size or shape of the breast
Nipple discharge, especially if bloody
A nipple that turns inward unexpectedly
Redness, scaling, or dimpling of the skin
Persistent pain or swelling in the breast or underarm
Any of these symptoms should be evaluated promptly by a healthcare professional.
Early detection saves lives
Breast cancer does not discriminate by gender. While women remain at much higher risk, men should never ignore changes in their chest or assume they are immune to the disease. Penn Highlands Healthcare is committed to providing comprehensive breast health services for both women and men. From advanced 3-D mammography and diagnostic breast imaging to consultations with experienced providers, Penn Highlands offers the expertise and technology needed to evaluate concerning symptoms and identify breast cancer as early as possible. Learn more at www.phhealthcare.org/pink.