A Guide to Breast Cancer in Men: From Risk Factors to Preventive Measures

Medically reviewed by Dr Johann Tang, Senior Consultant Radiation Oncologist

Breast cancer is often associated with women, but men can develop breast cancer too. Although male breast cancer accounts for less than 1% of all breast cancer cases, awareness remains important because delayed diagnosis is common.

Recognising the early symptoms of breast cancer in men and seeking prompt medical attention can improve treatment outcomes. In Singapore, developments in cancer treatment, including surgery, radiotherapy, chemotherapy, and hormone therapy, have expanded the range of care options available for men diagnosed with the condition.

This guide explains the symptoms, causes, risk factors, screening recommendations, and treatment options for male breast cancer in Singapore.

Key Takeaways

• Breast cancer can occur in men, and early awareness helps support timely diagnosis.
• A breast lump, nipple changes, or unusual discharge should be checked by a doctor promptly.
• Genetics, age, hormonal changes, and lifestyle factors can increase the risk of male breast cancer.
• Treatment may include surgery, radiotherapy, chemotherapy, or hormone therapy, depending on the cancer stage.
• Seeking medical attention promptly can support earlier diagnosis and help guide appropriate treatment.

What Is Male Breast Cancer?

Male breast cancer occurs when abnormal cells grow uncontrollably in the breast tissue of a man. Although men have much less breast tissue than women, they still possess milk ducts and surrounding tissue where cancer can develop.

Most cases begin in the ducts located behind the nipple area. Without early detection, cancer cells may spread to nearby lymph nodes or other parts of the body.

How Common Is Breast Cancer in Men?

Male breast cancer is considered rare, but the number of diagnosed cases has gradually increased over the years due to greater awareness and improved detection.

Because many men do not expect breast cancer symptoms, diagnosis is often delayed until the cancer has progressed further. This makes education and awareness especially important.

Types of Breast Cancer in Men

1. Invasive Ductal Carcinoma (IDC)

Invasive ductal carcinoma is the most common type of breast cancer in men. It begins in the milk ducts and spreads into nearby breast tissue.

If left untreated, IDC can spread to the lymph nodes and distant organs.

2. Ductal Carcinoma In Situ (DCIS)

DCIS is an early-stage, non-invasive breast cancer where abnormal cells remain confined inside the milk ducts.

Because it has not spread into surrounding tissue, treatment is often less extensive than for invasive breast cancer.

3. Invasive Lobular Carcinoma (ILC)

Invasive lobular carcinoma starts in the lobules, which are glands involved in milk production.

Since men naturally have very little lobular tissue, this form of male breast cancer is uncommon.

Other Rare Forms

Less common breast cancers in men include:

• Paget’s disease of the nipple
• Phyllodes tumours
• Breast sarcomas

Symptoms of Breast Cancer in Men

Early detection begins with recognising unusual breast changes.

Common Male Breast Cancer Symptoms

Lump in the Breast

A firm or painless lump behind or near the nipple is one of the most common signs of male breast cancer.

Nipple Changes

Watch for:

• Nipple inversion
• Flattening
• Scaling
• Crusting

Skin Changes

Changes in the skin over the breast may include:

• Redness
• Thickening
• Dimpling
• Puckering

Nipple Discharge

Bloody or unusual nipple discharge should always be medically evaluated.

Swollen Lymph Nodes

Swelling in the underarm or collarbone region may indicate lymph node involvement.

While some symptoms may be caused by non-cancerous conditions, persistent changes should never be ignored.

What Causes Breast Cancer in Men?

Male breast cancer develops due to genetic, hormonal, and environmental factors that lead to abnormal cell growth in breast tissue.

In many cases, no single cause is identified. However, several known risk factors may increase the likelihood of developing breast cancer.

Risk Factors for Male Breast Cancer

1. Genetic Mutations

Inherited BRCA1 and BRCA2

gene mutations significantly increase breast cancer risk in men.

Men with a family history of:

• Breast cancer
• Ovarian cancer
• Prostate cancer

may wish to undergo genetic counselling or testing.

2. Older Age

Most cases of breast cancer in men are diagnosed between ages 60 to 70.

As people age, DNA damage accumulates naturally, increasing cancer risk over time.

3. Hormonal Imbalances

Conditions that increase oestrogen levels may raise the risk of male breast cancer, including:

• Klinefelter syndrome
• Liver disease
• Testicular disorders

4. Obesity and Lifestyle Factors

Obesity, smoking, heavy alcohol consumption, and poor dietary habits may contribute to hormonal changes and chronic inflammation linked to cancer development.

5. Prior Radiation Exposure

Men who previously received chest radiation therapy for other medical conditions may face a higher long-term breast cancer risk.

When Should Men See a Doctor?

You should seek medical attention if you notice:

• A breast lump lasting more than two weeks
• Bloody nipple discharge
• Persistent breast pain
• Skin dimpling or thickening
• Swelling under the arm

Early evaluation can help detect cancer at a more treatable stage.

Can Breast Cancer in Men Be Prevented?

Although not all cases can be prevented, several steps may help lower risk and support early detection.

Know Your Family History

Men with strong family histories of cancer should discuss their risk profile with a doctor.

Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle

Regular exercise, weight management, limiting alcohol intake, and avoiding smoking may help reduce cancer risk.

Perform Regular Self-Checks

Monthly self-examinations help men become familiar with normal breast tissue and notice changes earlier.

Attend Recommended Screenings

Higher-risk individuals may require regular clinical breast examinations or imaging assessments based on medical advice.

How Is Male Breast Cancer Diagnosed?

Doctors may use several methods to diagnose breast cancer in men, including:

• Physical examination
• Mammography
• Ultrasound imaging
• Biopsy
• MRI scans in selected cases

Once diagnosed, additional tests help determine the cancer stage and guide treatment planning.

Treatment Options for Male Breast Cancer in Singapore

Breast cancer treatment in Singapore depends on:

• Cancer stage
• Tumour size
• Hormone receptor status
• Overall health condition

Treatment plans are tailored individually.

Early-Stage Breast Cancer Treatment

Surgery

Surgery is often the main treatment for early-stage male breast cancer.

Options may include:

• Mastectomy
• Breast-conserving surgery (lumpectomy) in selected cases

Radiotherapy

Radiation therapy helps destroy remaining cancer cells after surgery.

Techniques such as:

• Intensity-modulated radiotherapy (IMRT)
• Image-guided radiotherapy (IGRT)
• Accelerated partial breast irradiation (APBI)

are designed to target the treatment area while limiting radiation to surrounding healthy tissue

Hormone Therapy

Many male breast cancers are hormone receptor-positive, making hormone-blocking medication an important treatment component.

Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy may be recommended for:

• Larger tumours
• Lymph node involvement
• Higher-risk cancer features

Treatment for Locally Advanced Breast Cancer

Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy may be given before surgery to shrink the tumour and improve surgical outcomes.

Mastectomy and Lymph Node Surgery

More invasive cancers often require mastectomy and evaluation of lymph nodes under the arm.

Adjuvant Therapy

Additional treatments after surgery may include:

• Hormone therapy
• Chemotherapy
• Targeted therapy, such as Proton therapy
• Radiotherapy

Stage IV Male Breast Cancer Treatment

When breast cancer spreads to distant organs, treatment focuses on disease control and symptom management.

Systemic Therapies

Options include:

• Chemotherapy
• Hormone therapy
• Targeted therapy

Palliative Radiotherapy

Radiotherapy may help relieve:

• Bone pain
• Pressure symptoms
• Neurological symptoms from metastatic disease

Supportive Care

Comprehensive supportive care may include:

• Pain management
• Nutritional support
• Rehabilitation
• Emotional support services

Frequently Asked Questions About Male Breast Cancer

Is breast cancer in men curable?

When diagnosed at an earlier stage, male breast cancer may have a wider range of treatment options. Treatment recommendations depend on the cancer stage and tumour characteristics.

Can men survive breast cancer?

Yes. Earlier diagnosis can influence treatment planning, although each person’s prognosis is unique.

Is a breast lump in men always cancer?

No. Many breast lumps are non-cancerous, but all persistent lumps should be medically evaluated.

Does male breast cancer come back after treatment?

Recurrence is possible, which is why regular follow-up appointments remain important after treatment.

How much does breast cancer treatment cost in Singapore?

Costs vary depending on the treatment type and stage of cancer. Financial support schemes such as MediSave may help offset selected cancer treatment expenses.

Conclusion

Although breast cancer in men is rare, awareness remains essential. Understanding the symptoms, risk factors, and treatment options can help men recognise when to seek medical attention and make informed decisions about their care.

Men who notice unusual breast changes should seek medical advice promptly rather than waiting for symptoms to worsen.

If you are concerned about male breast cancer symptoms or have questions about screening or treatment options, consult Dr Johann Tang to discuss your individual circumstances and the next steps for assessment and care.