Can Men Get Breast Cancer? What Sheboygan Seniors Should Know

Can men get breast cancer? Absolutely. According to CDC reports, roughly 1 in 100 breast cancer cases in the U.S. occur in men. While it's rare, male breast cancer is real, and older men are at higher risk than most.

Men in Sheboygan, WI, can protect their health by learning about the signs, risk factors, and types of breast cancer, which can aid in early detection and improve outcomes.

Keep reading to learn more about male breast cancer awareness and senior male health screenings in retirement. Let's start with the facts.

What Type of Breast Cancer Do Men Get?

The most common type is invasive ductal carcinoma. This cancer starts in the ducts that carry milk to the nipple, even though male breast tissue doesn't produce milk. Other types include:

• Lobular Carcinoma: Rare in men, as lobules (milk-producing glands) are minimal
• Paget's Disease of the Nipple: A rare form that affects the skin of the nipple
• Inflammatory Breast Cancer: Aggressive and fast-growing, though uncommon in men

Men's breast cancer cells often have receptors for estrogen and progesterone. This can guide treatment choices, which may include:

• Surgery
• Radiation
• Hormone therapy
• Chemotherapy

How Do Breast Cancer Symptoms Show Up in Men?

Early detection saves lives. Here are the warning signs of breast cancer in men that should never be ignored:

• A Lump or thickening in the chest area: Usually painless, this is the most common symptom
• Changes in skin texture: Dimpling, puckering, or scaling of the skin over the chest
• Nipple changes: Inversion, redness, or flaking of the nipple
• Nipple discharge: Clear or bloody fluid from the nipple is a red flag
• Swelling or pain in the chest area: Especially if it's persistent or one-sided

If you notice any of these symptoms, schedule a medical evaluation immediately. 

Risk Factors in Men

Several risk factors increase the likelihoodof breast cancer in men. These include the following:

• Age: Most cases occur in men between 60 and 70 years old
• Family history: Having a close relative with breast cancer, especially a mother or sister, raises your risk
• Genetic mutations: BRCA2 mutations are strongly linked to male breast cancer
• Hormone imbalance: Conditions like Klinefelter syndrome or liver disease can increase estrogen levels in men
• Radiation exposure: Radiation therapy to the chest area may elevate the risk
• Obesity: Higher body fat can raise estrogen levels, which may promote abnormal cell growth
• Alcohol use: Excessive drinking has been linked to increased breast cancer risk in men

Why Male Breast Cancer Awareness Matters 

Many men assume breast cancer is a "women's disease," which leads to dangerous delays in diagnosis. Unlike women, men aren't routinely screened for breast cancer, so by the time symptoms are noticed, the cancer may have progressed. 

Some men may feel embarrassed or confused about breast-related symptoms. Awareness normalizes the conversation, reduces stigma, and empowers men to get the help they need.

How Can Men Stay on Top of Their Health in Sheboygan, WI?

Taking charge of your health is essential. Here are practical senior male health tips to stay proactive:

• Schedule regular medical check-ups and discuss any unusual changes with your doctor
• Know your risk factors, including family history and lifestyle influences
• Monitor your body with self-exams and pay attention to any changes
• Focus on healthy habits such as nutritious eating and staying active

LakeHouse Sheboygan assisted living offers a supportive environment that encourages residents to stay engaged in their health. This pet-friendly community provides:

• Personalized care plans: Each resident receives care tailored to their individual needs
• Engaging activities: Residents can participate in arts and crafts, book clubs, Qigong, bingo, men's groups, and more
• Wellness amenities: The community includes a wellness center, salon, and library
• Supportive staff to assist with health needs and resources 

LakeHouse Sheboygan is dedicated to fostering a vibrant and healthy lifestyle for its residents, ensuring that their wellness and quality of life are consistently prioritized. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Male Breast Cancer Be Prevented?

While you can't eliminate all risks, maintaining healthy habits and managing chronic conditions can reduce your chances. Regular check-ups and awareness of symptoms are key to maintaining good breast health.

Which Tests Detect Male Breast Cancer?

Doctors may use mammograms, ultrasounds, and biopsies to diagnose male breast cancer. Blood tests and genetic screenings may also be recommended if there are known risks.

Should Men Get Mammograms?

While mammograms are one of the diagnostic tools, routine screening isn't recommended for most men. However, those with BRCA mutations or a strong family history may benefit from mammography if symptoms appear.

What Is the First Stage of Breast Cancer in Men?

Breast cancer in men is staged the same way as in women. Stage 0, known as DCIS, is the first stage of breast cancer where abnormal growth is confined to the milk ducts (non-invasive) and is highly treatable. 

After that, stages progress from I (1) to IV (4), with lower numbers indicating that the cancer is smaller and has spread less.

Is Breast Cancer Curable in Men?

The outlook depends on how advanced the cancer is when it's diagnosed. Overall, survival rates for men are slightly lower than for women, partly because men are often diagnosed at an older age and at a later stage. Early detection and treatment significantly improve the chances of a successful outcome.

Can Male Breast Cancer Come Back After Treatment?

Yes. Like in women, recurrence is possible. Follow-up care, regular check-ups, and hormone therapy (if prescribed) help monitor and reduce the risk of cancer returning.

Can Men Get Breast Cancer? What Sheboygan Seniors Must Know

Can men get breast cancer? Yes, and seniors need to take that seriously. Understanding the types of breast cancer men face, recognizing early warning signs, and knowing your personal risk factors, especially as a senior, can lead to earlier detection and better outcomes. 

Discover the peace of mind that comes with compassionate support, a strong focus on overall wellness, and opportunities to stay connected in a meaningful way. From housekeeping and delicious meals to daily activity support and curated outings, LakeHouse Sheboygan will enrich your lifestyle. Contact us today to discover how we can help you achieve your health goals.