Breast cancer is often seen as a disease that affects only women. However, that belief is not entirely true. A recent discussion has brought attention to a lesser-known reality. It reveals that men can also develop breast cancer, and many people still don’t know this.
While the condition is rare in men, ignoring early signs can be risky. A small lump or unusual change in the chest area may seem harmless, but it should never be overlooked.
Can Men Get Breast Cancer? Here’s What The Doctor Said
In a video on YouTube, journalist Shubhankar Mishra asked an important question about breast cancer in men. Responding to this, Dr Tarang Krishna said, “Yes, men can also get breast cancer. This may surprise many people, but men do have breast tissue. Cancer can develop in that tissue, although it is quite rare.”
He further explained that the condition often begins with a small lump in the chest. Many people ignore it, thinking it is something minor like a lipoma. However, proper tests and scans can sometimes reveal it as breast cancer.
Dr Tarang also noted that even in clinical practice, a few cases are seen every year. This shows that although rare, breast cancer in men is real and should not be ignored.
According to the American Cancer Society, this disease in men accounts for less than 1% of all breast cancer cases. Still, early detection plays a key role in treatment.
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Breast Cancer Risk Factors In Men You Should Know
Not all men face the same risk. Some conditions can increase the chances of developing this disease. Dr Tarang highlighted a few key factors:
- Gynecomastia: This is a condition where men develop larger or looser chest tissue. It can resemble female breast tissue and slightly increase the risk.
- Steroid use: Bodybuilders who use steroids or certain supplements may face higher risk due to hormonal imbalance.
- Ignoring symptoms: Small lumps are often dismissed, which delays diagnosis.
These factors show why awareness is important. Even a minor change in the chest area should be checked by a doctor.
Why Awareness Matters
The biggest challenge with this disease in men is lack of awareness. Many do not even consider it a possibility, which leads to delayed diagnosis.
Simple steps can help:
- Pay attention to unusual lumps or swelling.
- Do not ignore persistent changes.
- Consult a doctor early if something feels unusual.
Early detection can make a big difference. As awareness grows, more people may take timely action and avoid serious complications.
In the end, this disease is not limited by gender. Knowing the signs and risks can help save lives.
