Although most people who get breast cancer are women, men can get it, too. Breast cancer in men is rare — less than one percent of all breast cancers occur in men. The most common type of breast cancer in men is invasive ductal carcinoma (IDC).
Both men and women have breast tissue, but because men's bodies don't make much of the breast-stimulating hormones, their breast tissue is minimal. But, sometimes men can develop more breast gland tissue due to hormone imbalances or certain medicines.
Factors that can increase a man's risk of getting breast cancer include:
- Age: Risk increases as you get older. The average age of men when they’re diagnosed is about 68.
- High estrogen levels: Men can have high estrogen levels due to medicines, being overweight, estrogens in the environment, heavy alcohol use, liver disease, or testicular conditions.
- Klinefelter syndrome: Men with this condition have lower levels of androgens (male hormones) and higher levels of estrogen (female hormones).
- Radiation exposure: Radiation therapy to the chest, such as during cancer treatment, increases the risk of breast cancer.
- Family and genetics: A strong family history of breast cancer or genetic mutations (particularly BRCA2 gene mutation) indicates a higher risk.
Surgery is usually the first line of treatment for breast cancer in men. In some instances, your doctor may recommend chemotherapy, hormonal therapy, or another treatment before or after surgery. Your doctor will talk to you about all your options.
Why Choose Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center?
One of only 71 NCI-designated cancer centers in the United States. Sylvester is one of only two cancer centers in Florida that have been recognized by the National Cancer Institute. The team earned this distinction through its outstanding work conducting research in its laboratories, treating patients in its clinics and hospitals, and reaching out to medically underserved communities with innovative prevention strategies.
Renowned Braman Family Breast Cancer Institute at Sylvester. We offer treatments customized to your individual needs at one of the nation's best breast cancer diagnosis and care programs.
Breast Imaging Center of Excellence designation by the American College of Radiology. Thanks to imaging excellence, you receive a more precise diagnosis, which then guides a more effective treatment plan.