Significance

• Since the incidence of breast cancer in men is so small, many men do not recognize the symptoms. Also, men are not regularly screened, nor do they perform self exams, so the breast cancer is often advanced by the time of diagnosis.
  
  

Considerations

• Male breast cancer is not only rarer in men, it is also deadlier. According to the American Cancer Society, roughly 2,000 cases and 450 deaths occur each year.
  
  

Identification

• There is a strong genetic link between men and breast cancer. Family history, age (men between 60 and 70 years of age), high estrogen levels, alcohol use and liver diseases, obesity, radiation exposure and cirrhosis are risk factors.
  
  

Effects

• Symptoms of male breast cancer include lumps, changes in breast skin and nipples, and discharge or fluid from the nipple. Pain can also be present.
  
  

Treatment

• Treatment includes surgery to remove the breast, radiation, hormonal treatments, and chemotherapy. Early detection and treatment are key for survival.
  
  

Fact

• Men are frequently ill at ease talking about their breasts, and an appointment in a mammogram center can be awkward. Regardless, early diagnosis is a key factor in successful recovery from breast cancer.