Can men have breast cancer?

The topic of breast cancer usually brings images of women bravely facing a formidable adversary in our minds. But here’s the thing: While it’s true that breast cancer primarily affects women, men can get it too. Yes, you read that right. Well, there are many misconceptions about this lesser-known aspect of breast cancer. Read on to know more.

What Is Breast Cancer in Men?

Breast cancer in men is a type of carcinoma that develops in the breast tissue of men. When cells in the milk ducts, fatty tissue, and breast grow uncontrollably, they form a tumour and become cancer. Breast cancer can also spread or metastasize to other parts of the body. However, it is extremely rare in men.

Types of Breast Cancer in Men

1. Invasive ductal carcinoma

This is the most common type of breast cancer and about 85% of breast cancers in men are invasive ductal carcinoma. The cancer cells first develop in the milk ducts and can spread in the breast and other parts of the body.

2. Invasive lobular carcinoma

In this type of carcinoma, the cancer cells develop in the lobules (glands which produce milk) and spread to other parts of the body. This is rare in men.

3. Ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS)

In situ implies the cancer cells have not spread in the breast or to other parts of the body. So, in DCIS, the cancer cells are formed only in the lining of the milk ducts.

4. Inflammatory breast cancer

This is an extremely rare but aggressive type of breast cancer. It doesn’t form a lump in the breast but makes the breast red, swollen, tender, and warm. One can mistake it for an infection.

5. Paget disease of the breast

Only 5% of male breast cancers are Paget disease of the breast. In this type, the cancer cells start developing in the milk ducts, then spread to the nipple and also to the areola (the dark circle around the nipple). The skin of the nipple gets itchy, scaly, red, and may also bleed. A lump may also be formed in the breast.