Breast Cancer in Men: Awareness for Older Adults
Breast cancer in men may not be as common as in women, but it can still occur and be life-threatening nonetheless. For this reason, male senior health education should be a priority, particularly when it comes to this disease's prevalence, symptoms, and risks. Just as crucial to know is how early detection can prove to be lifesaving.
As the American Cancer Society (ACS) points out, the 5-year relative survival rate for localized breast cancer in men is 97%. Localized means the cancer shows no sign of spreading outside the breast. By contrast, the survival rates for regional and distant stages are lower: 86% and 31%, respectively.
To that end, the team at La Marea, our assisted living and memory care community in the beach city of Carlsbad, situated just 35 miles north of downtown San Diego, CA, put together this guide. We'll share breast cancer insights to spread awareness for older men.
How Common Is Breast Cancer in Men?
Breast cancer in men is rare, but it can still happen because men have breast tissue, too. Per the World Health Organization (WHO), it only accounts for about about 05.% to 1% of breast cancer cases.
What Factors Can Increase Breast Cancer Risk in Elderly Men?
The exact causes of male breast cancer remain unknown.
Still, the U.S. CDC says that several factors can increase a man's likelihood of getting breast cancer, including advancing age. According to the organization, finding this disease is more common after the age of 50. Other risk factors include:
- Inherited changes in the genes (mutations)
- A close family history of breast cancer
- Having undergone radiation or hormone therapy treatment
- Liver disease
- Being overweight or having obesity
- Having Klinefelter syndrome
Klinefelter syndrome is a rare condition that affects men. Males who have it have an extra X chromosome. According to MedlinePlus, compared to unaffected individuals, men with this condition have an increased risk for breast cancer.
What Are the Signs of Breast Cancer in Men?
Male breast cancer symptoms are similar to those of female breast cancer. They include:
- Lumps or thickened areas in the breast
- Changes in the skin over the breast (e.g., dimpling, puckering, redness, or swelling)
- Unusual fluid discharge from the nipple
- Swollen lymph nodes, particularly in the collarbone or armpits
How Can Early Detection of Breast Cancer Help?
Early detection of breast cancer in men helps reduce the need for more aggressive treatments. It also aids in improving the overall quality of life, as it increases the chance of recovery by making the cancer more likely to respond to treatment.
One of the primary methods used to detect male breast cancer early is a breast self-exam. It involves regularly examining the breast to detect any unusual changes (e.g., lumps or discharge).
A clinical breast exam is a more comprehensive physical examination. It entails checking for lumps or any other abnormalities in the breast skin, tissue, and nipples.
Another method for the early detection of breast cancer in men is mammography. It's an X-ray that captures detailed images of the internal breast tissue. It can detect small calcifications and tumors.
What Lifestyle Habits Can Help Reduce the Risk of Male Breast Cancer?
Considering that being overweight or having obesity is a risk factor for cancer, seniors should aim to maintain a healthy weight through physical wellness activities. Engaging in regular physical activity is an excellent way to achieve this goal. It burns calories and can help older adults shed excess pounds.
Plus, exercising is one of the top ways to bust stress. It can also help lift moods by triggering the release and production of happy hormones.
Another crucial strategy to maintain a healthy weight and reduce one's risk of cancer is focusing on a healthy diet. Seniors should prioritize energy-boosting foods that promote healthy immunity, including essential vitamins and minerals, lean proteins, and healthy fats.
Avoiding too much alcohol and quitting smoking are other ways to reduce cancer risk.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Breast Cancer in Men Preventable?
There is no known way to prevent breast cancer, given that some of its primary risk factors are non-modifiable or not changeable. However, seniors in Carlsbad, CA, can lower their risk through healthy lifestyle habits.
Getting regular health screenings can also help, as it's key to prompt treatment. Prompt treatment is more likely to stop the disease from growing and spreading.
Is Breast Cancer Curable in Males?
Yes, many cases of breast cancer in men are curable. The most "curable" are those in their earliest stages (localized).
Surgery is among the most common ways to treat breast cancer in men. It often takes the form of a mastectomy, which involves removing the affected breast tissue.
Radiation therapy is another treatment method for breast cancer in men. It entails the use of high-energy rays powerful enough to kill cancer cells.
In some cases, treating breast cancer may include hormone therapy, chemotherapy, or targeted drug therapy. Sometimes, the treatment plan may involve a combination of all these treatments.
Does Breast Cancer in a Man Hurt?
Breast pain can be an indication of breast cancer. However, it's not as common as other symptoms, such as lumps or changes in the skin over the breast.
Pain that occurs in the breast is more likely a sign of gynecomastia. Gynecomastia is a condition characterized by enlargement of the breast tissue. Enlarged breast tissue can press on the blood vessels and nerves, resulting in pain or discomfort.
Gynecomastia itself is a benign condition. However, in rare cases, it can increase a man's risk for developing breast cancer.
Never Underestimate Breast Cancer in Men
While breast cancer in men is rare, it can be life-threatening, especially if not caught and treated early. For this reason, seniors in Carlsbad, CA, should pay attention to their breast health and engage in more healthy lifestyle habits.
La Marea, our senior living community in Carlsbad, CA, is always happy to help our older residents age gracefully and healthily. We encourage better wellness by providing them access to daily physical, social, and recreational activities, delectable yet nutritious meals, and exceptional personal care and support.
Speak with us today to book a tour of our assisted living and memory care enclaves!