SAEDNEWS: Breast cancer is often considered a women’s disease, but it can actually occur in men as well. Even in men, small amounts of breast tissue exist that, just like in women, can undergo changes and potentially develop into breast cancer.
According to the Science and Technology service of Saed News, the breast—commonly referred to as the mammary gland—is composed of a collection of glands called lobules (which produce milk in women), small tubes called ducts (which carry milk from the lobules to the nipple), and stroma. Stroma consists of fatty and connective tissue that surrounds the lobules and ducts, along with blood and lymphatic vessels.
In early life, the amount of breast tissue in males and females is roughly equal. However, this changes with the onset of puberty, when female hormones produced by the ovaries stimulate the growth of female ducts, lobules, and stroma. In men, this growth is limited. Men generally have ducts but very few lobules and minimal fatty tissue.
The exact cause of male breast cancer is not well understood, but several risk factors may contribute to its development:
Age: While younger men can develop breast cancer, the risk increases with age. The average age of diagnosis is between 60 and 70 years.
Hormone exposure: Increased estrogen levels can raise the risk. This may occur in men with Klinefelter syndrome, those undergoing hormone therapy, or those with cirrhosis or obesity.
Genetics and family history: Having close relatives with breast cancer or carrying certain inherited gene mutations such as BRCA2 increases the risk. These mutations can also raise the risk of prostate cancer.
Other medical conditions and treatments: Orchitis (inflammation of the testicles), surgical removal of the testes, or chest radiation can also contribute.
Symptoms in men are similar to those in women, including:
A lump that can be seen or felt
Enlargement of the breast
Pain in the nipple
Nipple discharge
Sores on the nipple or areola
Changes in the shape of the nipple
Swelling of lymph nodes under the arm
If one or more of these symptoms occur, it is recommended to contact a physician immediately.
One condition that can be mistaken for male breast cancer is gynecomastia, characterized by the enlargement of both breasts. This condition is usually benign and may result from weight gain, certain medications, marijuana use, or alcohol abuse. However, any uncertainty should be addressed by a doctor.
Due to the limited amount of glandular tissue in men, early symptoms are possible, but diagnosis is often delayed because men tend to underestimate the risk of breast cancer affecting them.
At the Humanitas Cancer Center, male breast cancer is addressed through awareness campaigns and genetic counseling programs aimed at evaluating potential genetic predispositions to this tumor, including molecular structure analysis.
Treatment depends on the type and extent of the disease but generally includes:
Surgery
Radiotherapy
Hormonal therapy
Chemotherapy
Targeted therapy
