Male breast cancer signs: Can men also get breast cancer like women? Learn how the symptoms appear.

Male breast cancer: Breast cancer cases have risen sharply among men living and working near Ground Zero, the World Trade Center in the United States. According to a report in the New York Post, the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has confirmed breast cancer in 91 men so far. It's worth noting that this figure is for the year 2024. This number is six times higher than the number of cases reported in 2018 and 90 times higher than the US national average.

Experts say this is concerning, as breast cancer in men is generally considered extremely rare. Generally, only one man in every 100,000 is affected by this disease. Let's explain how breast cancer occurs in men.

How does breast cancer occur in men?

According to the doctor, breast cancer isn't just a disease of women. Everyone is born with a small amount of breast tissue, and this tissue can sometimes grow abnormally. According to the Mayo Clinic, breast cancer in men usually begins with changes in the cells of the breast tissue. These cancer cells grow slowly and, over time, develop into a lump or tumor.

Which men are at higher risk?

According to health experts, this condition is most commonly seen in men between the ages of 60 and 70, but it can occur at any age. According to the CDC and Mayo Clinic, there are several factors that increase the risk of developing it. These include advancing age, hormonal imbalances or estrogen therapy, a family history of breast cancer, Klinefelter syndrome, in which men have an extra copy of the X chromosome, liver diseases such as cirrhosis, obesity, which increases estrogen levels in the body, and testicular diseases or surgery.

Symptoms that should not be ignored

According to experts, the early symptoms of breast cancer in men are often mild and overlooked. Some common symptoms include a painless lump or swelling on the chest, skin dimpling, redness, or discoloration, a change in the shape or inward turning of the nipple, fluid or blood leaking from the nipple, and swelling in the armpit or around the collarbone. If any of these symptoms persist for a long time, it's important to consult a doctor immediately.

What is the defense

It's not possible to completely prevent this disease, but certain precautions can reduce the risk. According to the doctor, if there's a family history of breast cancer, genetic testing should be done. Additionally, maintaining weight control, limiting alcohol consumption, and performing regular self-examinations are essential.