Do Men Get Breast Cancer? The Facts You Should Know

Breast cancer is commonly associated with women, but men also have breast tissue and can be at risk for developing breast cancer.

In South Africa, male breast cancer accounts for approximately 1.8% of all breast cancer cases, compared to less than 1% worldwide. Black men have higher incidence rates for all breast cancer subtypes.

Types of male Breast Cancer

• Ductal carcinoma: This cancer starts in the milk ducts and is the most common type of male breast cancer.
• Lobular carcinoma: A rare type of breast cancer that starts in the glands that produce milk. Men’s breast tissue has very few lobules, making this uncommon.
• Other cancers: Inflammatory breast cancer and Paget’s disease, primarily affecting the nipple area, are less common but also occur in men.

Risk factors

Detecting breast cancer early increases the chances of successful treatment. However, many men delay seeking medical help when unusual symptoms appear, leading to later-stage diagnosis. Key risk factors include:

• Age: Men aged 40 to 80 years are most at risk.
• Genetic mutations: Inherited mutations in BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes increase risk.
• Family history: A close relative with breast cancer increases a man’s risk.
• Radiation therapy: Chest radiation treatment increases breast cancer risk.
• Hormone therapy: Treatments involving estrogen for prostate cancer heighten risk.
• Obesity: More fat cells can increase estrogen levels, raising cancer risk.
• Klinefelter’s syndrome: This genetic condition raises estrogen levels in men.
• Alcohol use: Heavy alcohol consumption can increase estrogen levels.

Signs and symptoms

Men with breast cancer may experience:

• Swelling or a painless lump in the breast
• Inverted nipple
• Nipple discharge or bleeding
• Breast discomfort or a pulling sensation
• Skin changes (dimpling, redness, or scaling)

Prevention

While male breast cancer cannot be entirely prevented, certain lifestyle changes can reduce risk:

• Maintain a healthy weight
• Exercise regularly
• Limit alcohol intake

PMB level of care

Treatable breast cancer is included in the Prescribed Minimum Benefit (PMB) regulations under Diagnosis and Treatment and Pair (DTP) code 950J.

Regardless of which benefit option a member or beneficiary is on, the medical scheme must pay for the diagnosis, treatment, and care costs of treatable breast cancer. The medical scheme must cover screening through a physical breast examination, consultations with doctors and other health professionals.

For more information on your PMB entitlements, download the full CMScript here.