1. About breast cancer in men
Many people don’t know that men can get breast cancer because they don’t think that men have breasts. But everyone has breast tissue.
Breast cancer in men is cancer that starts in this small amount of breast tissue.
Breast cancer in men is rare. Around 400 men are diagnosed each year in the UK.
Most men are diagnosed over the age of 60, but younger men can also get breast cancer.
Being diagnosed with breast cancer as a man can make you feel isolated, but support is available and we’re here to help.
We’ve got more information and support available for men with breast cancer.
2. Symptoms of breast cancer in men
A lump
The most common symptom of breast cancer in men is a lump in the chest, including up to the collarbone, or armpit. It’s often painless.
Other symptoms
Other symptoms may include:
- Liquid (discharge) that comes from the nipple without squeezing and which may be blood-stained
- A nipple change, for example it has become tender or pulled in (inverted)
- Sores (ulcers) on the chest or nipple area
- Swelling in the chest area and occasionally the lymph nodes under the arm
Men’s breast tissue can also become enlarged because of a benign (not cancer) condition called gynaecomastia.
What to do if you notice a symptom
See your GP if you notice a change to your chest area or nipple. This includes the area up to your collarbone (upper chest) and armpits.
3. Causes of breast cancer in men
The exact causes of breast cancer in men are not fully understood, but certain things increase the risk.
Age
Most men who get breast cancer are over 60, although younger men can also get breast cancer.
High oestrogen levels
There’s some evidence that men are at greater risk if they have higher than normal levels of the hormone oestrogen.
All men have a small amount of oestrogen.
High oestrogen levels can occur in men because of:
- Long-term liver damage, particularly cirrhosis
- Being very overweight (obese)
- Some genetic conditions, such as Klinefelter syndrome
Previous radiotherapy to the chest
Men who have had previous radiotherapy to the chest, for example to treat Hodgkin lymphoma (a type of blood cancer), may have a slightly increased risk of developing breast cancer.
Family history
Breast cancer can sometimes be caused by an inherited altered gene.
The most common altered genes that increase the risk of breast cancer are called BRCA1 and BRCA2. BRCA2 is more commonly associated with breast cancer in men.
If you’re concerned about your family history of breast cancer, talk to your GP.
4. Diagnosis
See your GP if you have any symptoms of breast cancer.
Your GP will examine you. They’ll then follow guidance to decide whether to refer you to a breast clinic, and how quickly you should be seen.
What to expect at the breast clinic
At the breast clinic, a doctor or nurse will ask you about your symptoms and examine your chest on both sides. They’ll also usually check the lymph nodes under your arm and around your neck.
You may need to have tests, such as a or a .
You can take a partner, friend or family member with you to the appointment for support, or you may prefer to go on your own.
You can read our information on what to expect at a breast clinic appointment, including what tests you might have and how you’ll get the results.
If you're told you have breast cancer
If you’re diagnosed with breast cancer, you’ll be told if it’s early breast cancer, also known as primary breast cancer.
Sometimes breast cancer cells can spread to other parts of the body, known as secondary or metastatic breast cancer.
You’ll be introduced to a breast care nurse who will talk to you about your diagnosis and treatment. They’ll offer you support and written information and be a point of contact throughout your treatment and afterwards.
There are several different types of breast cancer.
Breast cancer can be diagnosed at different stages, grow at different rates and have different features.
This means the treatment you’re offered will depend on your individual situation.
5. Treatment for breast cancer in men
Treatment for breast cancer in men may include:
- Surgery
- Chemotherapy
- Radiotherapy
- Hormone (endocrine) therapy
- Targeted therapy
Your treatment team will explain the reasons for your particular treatment and give you advice about managing side effects.
6. Coping with breast cancer
Being diagnosed with breast cancer and going through treatment can feel overwhelming and stressful.
You’ll probably have lots of questions and feel all sorts of emotions.
If you’re struggling emotionally, speak to your breast care nurse or treatment team. They can refer you for counselling or talking therapies, or let you know about local support groups.
You can also read our information about the emotional effects of breast cancer.
Telling other people
Some men may feel embarrassed to talk about their breast cancer.
Talking openly about your breast cancer may make it easier for people to support you and help you adjust to your diagnosis. Who you tell and how you tell them is up to you.
You can read our information about telling friends and family.
Some people may find it difficult to know what to say to you. Telling people about your diagnosis and what treatment you have been offered can be a good way to begin, and may lead naturally to talking about how you’re feeling.
Finding support
Family and friends can be a good source of support. It’s helpful for family and friends to know how you want to deal with things and how they can help you.
You can also talk to your breast care nurse, treatment team or GP about any concerns you have.
Talking to other men with breast cancer
Talking to other men who have had a similar experience can be helpful.
If you’ve had a primary breast cancer diagnosis, our Someone Like Me service can put you in touch with a trained volunteer who’s had a similar experience to you. They can talk to you by phone or email, listen to your concerns and provide support.
The Men’s Virtual Meet Up is an online support group for men who’ve had breast cancer. It’s a safe space for men to connect and chat, as well as have serious conversations about their breast cancer experiences. The group meets once a month online.
Our online discussion forum is a confidential area where you can share tips and information, and talk about what’s on your mind, with other men.
For more information and to find out what support is available, you can also call us free on our helpline number. See below for ways to get in touch.
