Yes, Men Can Get Breast Cancer
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Breast cancer in men is not something most people talk about, yet it does happen. Men have a small amount of breast tissue, and like any tissue in the body, it can develop cancer. For older Kiwi men and the families who care about them, understanding breast cancer in men is a sensible step towards staying well.
How common is breast cancer in men?
Breast cancer in men is rare. In New Zealand, only a small number of men are diagnosed each year, compared with thousands of women. However, the risk rises with age, and most men diagnosed are over 60. That makes it especially relevant for seniors.
Signs to look out for
The most common sign is a painless lump in the chest area, often just behind the nipple. Other changes can include a nipple that turns inwards, discharge from the nipple, redness or scaling of the skin, dimpling or puckering, or swelling in the armpit. Many men assume a chest lump is nothing or put it down to getting older, which can delay a visit to the doctor. Not every lump is cancer, and conditions such as gynaecomastia, an enlargement of breast tissue, are far more common. Still, any new change deserves to be checked.
Who is at higher risk?
Age is the biggest factor. Other things that can raise the risk include a family history of breast cancer, inherited gene changes such as BRCA2, past radiation treatment to the chest, long-term liver disease, being overweight and heavy alcohol use. Having a risk factor does not mean a man will develop breast cancer, and many men who are diagnosed have none of them.
Getting checked and treated
If you notice a change, make an appointment with your GP promptly. Your doctor may examine the area and arrange tests such as a mammogram, ultrasound or a small tissue sample. Treatment depends on the type and stage of the cancer. It often includes surgery and may also include hormone therapy, radiation or chemotherapy. When breast cancer in men is found early, outcomes are generally good, which is why speaking up matters.
Support in New Zealand
A diagnosis can feel isolating, particularly when many people think of breast cancer as a women’s disease. Organisations such as Breast Cancer Foundation NZ offer information and support, and your GP or practice nurse can point you to local services. Talking with family and friends can also make the journey easier.
