Breast Cancer in Men

Q:  My little brother is about 10 years younger than me, I think he is 62, was just diagnosed with breast cancer.  You hear so much about women with breast cancer, but I have never even heard of a man getting breast cancer.  Is this correct, and if so, what should I do to prevent getting it myself?

A:  Yes, men can get breast cancer.  It is obviously much less common than breast cancer in women, mostly because of the fact that men usually have very little true breast tissue.  But it does occur.  The treatment is very similar to women with surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy, depending on the stage of cancer.  The genetics are not as clear as in women, but with your brother having it, you are likely at increased risk of breast cancer.  While men do not get screening mammograms, it is very important for you to perform regular breast self exams.  Monthly would be reasonable for you.  You should look at your breasts and observe for any lumps or asymmetry.  Then push the breast tissue on both sides up against your rib cage an feel for any irregularities.  Let your doctor know if anything feels worrisome.

To learn more about breast cancer in men and self exams, watch this video on VideoMD.com.