Can Men Get Breast Cancer? What Seniors in Greer Should Know
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In summary:
- The question, "Can men get breast cancer?" is common, but the condition is very real, making it essential that seniors understand it.
- TerraBella Thornblade offers assisted living education to ensure people know how to check themselves for signs of the disease.
- Through assisted living and memory care, awareness of the challenges seniors face is on our minds, helping us support victims.
Sitting on the beautiful Thornblade Boulevard in Greer, SC, TerraBella Thornblade is close to many everyday conveniences and is the perfect community in which to enjoy a community lifestyle in one's senior years. As such, we make sure that people have access to the support they need, even if they need to handle challenges such as male breast cancer.
While you may have been thinking, "Can men get breast cancer?", sadly, it is much more common than people expect, with one in every 726 men falling victim to it at some point in their lives.
Below, we share some of the most crucial male breast cancer facts, including senior health tips that can assist with cancer prevention for older adults. Read out practical steps to learn how to reduce the risk and protect yourself in the future, and discover what we do to help in our community, too.
Can Men Get Breast Cancer? What Are the Signs?
While rare, it is entirely possible for men to get breast cancer.
Due to a lack of common knowledge about this fact, men should regularly check for some of the key signs. For example:
- Painless lumps underneath or close to the nipple
- Nipple inversion
- Crusting or discharge from the nipple
- Blood appearing from the nipple
- Skin dimpling in the breast area
- Swollen nodes under the arm
- Any sudden change in either breast side
If any of these symptoms appear, then you should get them checked. However, if you notice any other concern but do not prioritize it for any reason, we strongly recommend paying more attention if it persists for more than two weeks or involves blood.
What Are the Odds of a Man Getting Breast Cancer Once?
The lifetime risk is low, and we have already mentioned that almost one in 800 men gets the disease. However, many factors can increase the likelihood of falling victim, including:
- Age
- Family history
- Genetic predispositions
- Lifestyle choices, such as alcohol or tobacco use
- Few opportunities for exercise or poor physical health
There are also racial factors in male breast cancer, with black men more likely to develop the disease.
Chest radiation, such as X-rays, in earlier life can often lead to a higher risk later in life. At the same time, testicular injuries or infections can sometimes impact hormones, which can affect the likelihood of someone developing the disease.
When to Talk with a Doctor
If the symptoms appear rapidly and you suddenly become aware of an issue where there was none before, you should speak with your doctor immediately. It may suggest that the cancer is rapidly developing and that you will need an immediate response.
If you know that you carry specific genes that make it more likely that you will develop cancer, you should also perform your due diligence in being especially careful. As such, you will need to both check yourself and occasionally get a check-up with a doctor to ensure nothing has developed that you should be aware of.
During your visit, the doctor will take you seriously and review your medical history to assess the risks involved. They may then conduct a physical examination. However, they may also order a mammography breast X-ray or ultrasound, as well as a biopsy, if they believe there is anything worth investigating.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Can Men Check for Breast Cancer at Home?
Being aware of your own situation is key to being able to protect yourself against the possibility of male breast cancer. This care is critical for high-risk men.
When you are at home, look for new lumps under or close to the nipple, or take the time to search for any noticeable changes in the skin's appearance. You should also check the underarms for any new swelling or if the area feels especially tender.
If you have concerns about sudden changes, book an appointment as urgently as possible. Otherwise, report changes that last more than two weeks if they don't dissipate.
Should you or a loved one be unable to take any of these steps yourself and are currently in our community, our staff will be able to assist you with booking appointments and providing the attention you deserve.
Can Doctors Cure Male Breast Cancer?
Doctors can respond to many cases of male breast cancer, and they will be much more likely to be able to treat it when it is found earlier. The outcome of the treatment depends heavily on the individual's overall health, as well as their genetics and other personal factors.
However, seeing the doctor earlier should be your priority for your own health.
When Do Men Discover Male Breast Cancer on Average?
The risk of cancer increases dramatically as a person ages, with most diagnoses occurring in the 60s and 70s. As such, the average diagnosis is 67, according to the National Breast Cancer Foundation.
However, if you have a family history of cancer, or an indication from a doctor that you may have a propensity to the disease, then you should pay extra care from a younger age.
Stay Aware of the Signs and Support
The answer to "Can men get breast cancer?" is, unfortunately, a confirmed "Yes." However, being aware of the signs and risks can help you identify early symptoms and provide the necessary support.
Here in TerraBella Thornblade, for example, we offer Assisted Living, as well as Memory Care awareness and support that can be a key part in reducing the burden on any male breast cancer victim. With provided dining, housekeeping, and engaging activities, we can ensure that you or a loved one can focus on healthcare challenges as much as is necessary.
To learn more about how our community culture and staff can support with this, get in contact and book a tour. We can show you how we help with day-to-day health today.