Breast Cancer Is Not Just a Women's Disease: Men Can Get It Too

When people hear "breast cancer," most picture a woman. That picture is not wrong, but it is incomplete. Men have breast tissue too, and men can develop breast cancer.

About 1 in every 100 breast cancer cases is found in a man. It is rare, but rare does not mean impossible. And because few people talk about it, many men do not know they are at risk.

Why men often find out late

Most awareness campaigns speak to women, so many men never think to check. Some notice a change but feel embarrassed or assume it is nothing. By the time they see a doctor, the cancer may be more advanced. Early detection makes a big difference, so silence is the real danger here.

Signs to look out for

• A lump or swelling in the chest area, often painless

• Changes to the nipple, such as turning inward, pain, or discharge

• Redness, scaling, or dimpling of the skin on the chest

• Swelling or lumps under the arm

Having one of these signs does not mean you have cancer. Many causes are harmless. But only a doctor can tell, so do not guess.

Who may be at higher risk

Risk can be higher for men with a family history of breast cancer, men who are older, and men with certain inherited gene changes. If breast cancer runs in your family, mention it to your doctor, whatever your gender.

What to do

1. Get to know your normal. Notice what your chest usually looks and feels like.

2. Do not ignore changes. Book a visit with a doctor or health centre as soon as you notice something new.

3. Share your family history with your doctor.

4. Tell the men in your life. A short conversation could be the reason someone gets checked early.

Let's talk about it

Awareness starts with conversation. If this article taught you something new, share it with a brother, father, friend, or colleague. Women and men both deserve to have this information.

What is one thing you wish more people knew about breast cancer? Tell us in the comments.

This article is for awareness only and is not medical advice. If you notice any change in your body, please speak to a qualified healthcare professional.