Breast cancer rare, but possible, in men

October is breast cancer awareness month, which is why health experts at Putnam County Hospital are encouraging both women and men to educate themselves about breast cancer.

Breast cancer is often thought of as something that only women can be diagnosed with. However, all people, male or female, are born with some breast cells and tissue and although it's rare, men can in fact be diagnosed with breast cancer.

"It's really rare, but it still happens," Putnam County Hospital Cancer Center Manager Rhonda McCammack said. "It's rare, but we have seen men (with breast cancer)."

Although, it's been several years since the Cancer Center has seen a male patient with breast cancer, it is estimated that more than 2,150 men will be diagnosed with breast cancer each year and approximately 410 will die. Male breast cancer is rare and occurs mostly in men 60-70 years old, but can be deadly.

According to the American Cancer Society, "Like all cells of the body, a man's breast duct cells can undergo cancerous changes. But breast cancer is less common in men because their breast duct cells are less developed than those of women and because they normally have lower levels of female hormones that affect the growth of breast cells."

Some of the warning signs of breast cancer in men include a lump in or around the breast, changes in skin surface or texture, nipple discharge or dimpling of the nipple.

"They can check themselves for lumps," McCammack explained. "I don't know that most men do routinely or that there's even much said about it. A lot of times they just happen to notice something, of course with less breast tissue that may be easier to see."

As with all cancer, early detection is key, which is why men should be aware of the symptoms before it's too late.

According to the National Cancer Center, radiation exposure, high levels of estrogen and a family history of breast cancer can increase a man's risk of breast cancer.

"Hereditary breast cancer makes up about five percent to 10 percent of all breast cancer," the National Cancer Society states. "Some mutated genes related to breast cancer are more common in certain ethnic groups. Men who have a mutated gene related to breast cancer have an increased risk of this disease."

Survival rates and treatment for breast cancer in men is similar to those for women. Early detection increases treatment options and reduces the risk of being cured.

A physical exam, ultrasound exam, MRI, blood studies and biopsies are all tests that can be used to detect and diagnose breast cancer in men.

So although it's rare, men should be aware of the symptoms and educate themselves to help with early detection.

For more information on the Cancer Center services or to schedule an appointment call 655-2581.