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Male Breast Cancer
Reviewed by Medicinsk Expert•Last updated: 2026-10-22•Men

Male Breast Cancer

Male breast cancer is rare, most common in men aged 60‑70, and usually presents as a breast lump.

Overview

Although breast cancer is much more common in women, men can get it too. It happens most often to men between the ages of 60 and 70.

Symptoms

Breast lumps usually aren't cancer. However, most men with breast cancer have lumps. Other breast symptoms can include:

  • Dimpled or puckered skin
  • A red, scaly nipple or skin
  • Fluid discharge

Risk Factors

Risk factors for male breast cancer include exposure to radiation, a family history of breast cancer, and having high estrogen levels, which can happen with diseases like cirrhosis or Klinefelter syndrome.

Treatment & Management

Treatment for male breast cancer is usually a mastectomy, which is surgery to remove the breast. Other treatments include radiation, chemotherapy and/or hormone therapy.

Frequently Asked Questions

breast lump that is hard, irregular, or has a sharp edge, or one that does not resolve on its own after a few weeks, is more concerning. Other red flags include nipple discharge, skin dimpling, or a change in the size or shape of the lump. If any of these occur, a doctor will usually order imaging (ultrasound or mammogram) followed by a biopsy to confirm whether the tissue is malignant or benign.
The standard approach is a mastectomy to remove the breast tissue, often followed by radiation therapy to reduce the chance of recurrence. Depending on hormone receptor status, hormone therapy such as tamoxifen may be added. Chemotherapy is considered if the tumor is large, high grade, or has spread to lymph nodes. The overall prognosis is similar to that of women when diagnosed at a comparable stage, with 5‑year survival rates around 80‑90% for early‑stage disease.
Yes. Men with a family history of breast, ovarian, or pancreatic cancer should discuss BRCA1/2 testing with their doctor. A positive result can influence treatment choices (e.g., use of hormone therapy) and may prompt screening of relatives. Other genes such as CHEK2 or PALB2 can also be relevant, especially if there is a strong family history.
While no single lifestyle factor guarantees prevention, maintaining a healthy weight, limiting alcohol, avoiding unnecessary radiation exposure, and eating a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can help reduce overall cancer risk. After treatment, regular follow‑up exams, monitoring for recurrence, and a balanced diet support recovery and long‑term health.===
Source: MedlinePlus, National Library of Medicine

MedlinePlus brings together authoritative health information from the National Library of Medicine (NLM), the National Institutes of Health (NIH), and other government agencies and health-related organizations.

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