facts
understanding
breast cancer
in men.
Breast cancer in men is rare - but it exists.
Understanding the symptoms, diagnosis and
treatment pathways can help save lives.
~400
men a year receive a
breast cancer diagnosis
Often overlooked, often unexpected - but very real.
<1%
of breast cancer
diagnoses are men
One of many reasons why awareness is so low.
60 - 7o
most common age at diagnosis
But breast cancer can affect men of any age.
19%
higher mortality rate
than women
Delayed diagnosis and lower awareness cost lives.
What is
male breast
cancer?
There’s no such thing as “male breast cancer” - it’s still breast cancer.
We don’t usually assign gender to cancer. Nobody says “male lung cancer” or “female skin cancer.” But because breast cancer has historically been discussed almost entirely through a female lens, many people still see it as a women’s disease.
Breast cancer starts in the breast tissue, usually in the ducts behind the nipple. Men have breast tissue too, which means men can develop breast cancer in exactly the same way women can. That misunderstanding is part of the problem. Many men don’t realise they can get breast cancer, don’t recognise the symptoms, or delay speaking to a doctor.
Whilst breast cancer in men is rare, early diagnosis and treatment can significantly improve outcomes.
symptoms
The symptoms of breast cancer
in men can be similar to other conditions.
If you notice any changes that persist,
get it checked.
lump
or thickening
A lump in the breast
that is firm, painless
and immobile.
nipple
changes
Inversion, discharge
(including blood)
or crusting.
pain
or discomfort
Persistant pain,
soreness or a burning
sensation.
skin
changes
Dimpling or redness
to the skin around
the breast.
Swollen
lymph nodes
Lumps or swelling in the
armpit or around the
collarbone area.
how diagnosis
works
If you’re concerned about symptoms, here’s what typically happens.
Discuss symptoms and medical history.
Referred to a breast clinic for assessment.
Usually an ultrasound and a mammogram.
A sample is checked for cancer cells.
Your care team discusses next steps.
gp appointment
01
Referral
02
imaging
03
biopsy
04
treatment plan
05
treatment
Treatment is tailored to each individual.
Options may include:
chemotherapy
Drugs used to destroy cancer cells or stop them spreading.
surgery
Most men have surgery to remove the affected breast tissue.
radiotherapy
High-energy radiation used to reduce the risk of recurrence.
hormone therapy
Used for hormone receptor-positive breast cancer to reduce recurrence risk.
why awareness
matters
Low awareness leads to late diagnosis.
Late diagnoses can cost lives.
Many men don’t realise
breast cancer can
affect them.
lack of visibility
Men are often diagnosed
later, when treatment is
more complex.
delayed diagnosis
Embarrassment and
outdated perceptions stop
men from speaking up.
stigma and silence
Most resources are
female-focused,
leaving men overlooked.
lack of information
sources
Information on this page is based on trusted medical organisations.
This information is for general guidance only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice.
Always speak to your GP if you’re concerned about symptoms.
need to talk?
We’re here to listen.