Breast Cancer in Men: What Lancaster Seniors Should Know
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Breast cancer in men is rare, but seniors should still be aware of the symptoms so that if they develop this cancer, they can get diagnosed early and have better treatment options. They should also live a healthy lifestyle to decrease the chances of breast cancer happening in the first place.
According to Breastcancer.org, each year, about 32% of all newly diagnosed cancers in women are breast cancer. This makes it the most common cancer diagnosed among American women, and it's quite a deadly one too.
It seems like we only hear about breast cancer in women, but as a senior man in Lancaster, CA, you may be wondering: Does breast cancer in men happen too?
How Common Is Breast Cancer in Men?
Yes, men can get breast cancer, but how common is it? The Breast Cancer Research Foundation (BCRF) says that male breast cancer accounts for less than 1% of all breast cancer diagnoses. On top of that, only around 1 in 726 men will develop breast cancer in their lifetime.
As you can see, breast cancer in men isn't very common at all. As a result, many people aren't aware that this disease can happen in men, and this results in later diagnoses and lower survival rates.
This is why part of honoring older adults should be keeping up with male breast cancer awareness. With widespread education, we can help senior men detect breast cancer early on.
What is the Survival Rate for Men With Breast Cancer?
The American Cancer Society (ACS) shows that the 5-year survival rate for localized cancer is 97%, which is fantastic. In the regional stage, this drops a little to 86%.
However, in the distant stage, there's a massive dive to 31%. When you see these numbers, it's clear why early detection is key.
How Does a Man Know If He Has Breast Cancer?
There are several early warning signs in men you should be on the lookout for. They include:
- A lump or thickening of the breast tissue
- Nipple changes (such as inversion, redness, scaling, or discharge)
- Skin dimpling or puckering around the breast
- Swelling in the armpit or near the collarbone
- Itchiness or soreness that persists on the breast
It's important to schedule an appointment with your doctor if you notice any of these symptoms.
Risk Factors for Breast Cancer in Men
In older adults, cancer risk goes up with age, and this goes for women too.
Other risk factors that men should be aware of are:
- Family history (having close relatives with breast cancer increases risk)
- Genetic mutations (BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations significantly raise your risk)
- Hormonal imbalance (from conditions like obesity, liver disease, or Klinefelter syndrome)
- Radiation exposure
- Lifestyle factors (e.g., excessive alcohol use, poor diet, and lack of exercise)
Preventive Health Steps for Senior Men
You can't have a 100% chance of preventing breast cancer, but there are certain steps you can take to decrease your risk.
The first part of senior health information for breast cancer is to maintain a healthy weight. Excess fat can increase your estrogen levels, which then increases the chances of breast cancer developing. You should also stay physically active, as this can help with hormonal balance and your overall immune health.
Other tips include:
- Limiting your alcohol consumption
- Performing monthly self-checks
- Monitoring your family health history
- Scheduling regular doctor visits
- Getting genetic counseling if you have a strong family history
Treatment Options for Men With Breast Cancer
The treatment options for breast cancer are pretty similar for both men and women. The type will depend on the stage your cancer's in and the type.
Common treatments are:
- Surgery (usually a mastectomy)
- Radiation therapy
- Hormone therapy
- Chemotherapy
- Targeted therapy
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Does Breast Cancer in a Man Hurt?
Not always. In most cases, male breast cancers start as painless lumps, but you may develop pain or tenderness if the tumor presses against nerves or causes inflammation.
You should always have any persistent discomfort checked out by your doctor.
What Is Mistaken for Breast Cancer in Men?
Conditions like gynecomastia (breast tissue enlargement) or cysts are often mistaken for breast cancer in men. This is because there are lumps and swelling, but they're typically noncancerous.
Having the concerning areas imaged and biopsied can confirm whether they're cancerous or not.
Why Is Breast Cancer More Fatal for Men?
Unfortunately, men are often diagnosed at later stages due to a lack of awareness and delayed medical attention. In addition, smaller breast tissue allows the cancer to spread more quickly to nearby areas.
Can Men Get Breast Cancer Without a Family History?
Yes. Even though genetics play a role, they're not the singular cause of breast cancer. Environmental and hormonal factors can also trigger cancer to develop.
Are There Screening Tests for Men?
Yes, there are screening tests for breast cancer detection in males, but they're not recommended as routine tasks. But those with high-risk genetic mutations or a strong family history can definitely benefit from regular mammograms or ultrasounds.
Can Hormonal Medications Increase a Man's Risk of Breast Cancer?
Yes. If your medications raise your estrogen levels (such as those used to treat prostate cancer or hormone-related conditions), then this can increase your breast cancer risk. If you're on long-term hormone therapy, discuss the potential side effects with your doctor.
Can Breast Cancer in Men Recur After Treatment?
Yes, breast cancer can recur after successful treatment. This is why it's important to keep up with the following:
- Regular follow-ups
- Healthy lifestyle habits
- Ongoing monitoring
Know the Warning Signs to Look For
Now that you know that breast cancer in men is possible, it's essential that you're vigilant for early warning signs. That way, you can be proactive about seeing your doctor if you notice anything unusual.
Even if it turns out to be nothing, it's better to check a clean bill of health than to worry. So don't be afraid to have an open line of communication with your doctor, as it may just save your life.
Contact us today if you're interested in senior living in Lancaster, CA. Bellamar Lancaster has a convenient concierge service with friendly front desk faces, so our residents don't struggle with booking anything.