Understanding Male Breast Cancer During Breast Cancer Awareness Month
October brings worldwide campaigns focused on breast cancer education, yet male patients often remain invisible in the conversation. WHO reports that male breast cancer represents roughly 0.5% to 1% of total cases, translating to thousands of men each year. Risk factors include age, family history, genetic mutations such as BRCA2, hormonal imbalances, and exposure to radiation. Early signs—such as a firm mass, nipple inversion, or skin dimpling—require prompt clinical evaluation. Diagnostic pathways include mammography, ultrasound, and biopsy, followed by multidisciplinary treatment plans. Public health messages now stress that both sexes benefit from regular self‑exams and professional screenings, especially for those with known risk factors.
