The most important thing seniors can know about breast cancer in men is that it's a risk they should not ignore. Contrary to popular belief, not only women get breast cancer.
According to the American Cancer Society, the average lifetime risk of getting breast cancer is roughly 1 in 726. They predict that, in 2025, about 510 men will die from the disease. Luckily, there are plenty of cancer centers and senior-focused clinics in Grand Junction, CO, that can help.
Here's what you need to know about breast cancer and risk factors for older men.
Breast tissue exists in both men and women, though men tend to have much smaller amounts. Cancer can form in this tissue, usually in the ducts, but other rare forms occur as well.
Male breast cancer statistics all show that it accounts for a very small amount of all cancer cases in men. Despite its rarity, its impact is significant because men are less likely to recognize the early warning signs.
Most men diagnosed with breast cancer are over the age of 60, which makes senior health awareness a priority. Assisted living services can help monitor for changes and encourage seniors to make their medical appointments.
Several factors contribute to the development of breast cancer in men. For seniors, these risks often overlap with age-related changes and existing health conditions, such as:
Age is the most significant risk factor. Most cases are diagnosed between the ages of 60 and 70. Men with close relatives who have had breast cancer are more likely to develop it.
Unlike women, men are not encouraged to perform regular breast self-exams, which makes spotting symptoms more difficult. Some warning signs in men are:
Any of these warning signs should prompt immediate consultation with a healthcare provider. Seniors should not dismiss mild discomfort or assume symptoms are age-related. Even if a lump isn't cancer, it could be a cyst or a sign of an infection.
Early detection in men significantly improves treatment outcomes. Unfortunately, many cases are identified at later stages due to a lack of awareness. Men often delay seeking care until the disease has progressed.
For older men, early detection involves routine check-ups, especially for those with known risk factors. Doctors may recommend imaging tests such as mammograms or ultrasounds if suspicious changes are noticed.
Making senior health awareness and promoting wellness activities a community priority can reduce late diagnoses.
Treatment for male breast cancer is similar to treatment for women. However, it is often adjusted to meet the unique needs of older adults. Common options include:
Mastectomy, or the removal of breast tissue, is often used to remove tumors. It's paired with radiation therapy to target any remaining cancer cells.
For elderly patients, doctors consider overall health, coexisting conditions, and tolerance for aggressive therapies when making recommendations.
Survival rates for breast cancer in men vary depending on the stage at diagnosis and the individual's overall health. According to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation, men have a lower five-year survival rate than women at 84% versus 91%.
That rate decreases if the cancer has reached the lymph nodes or distant organs.
For seniors in Grand Junction, age can complicate treatment due to weaker immune systems, slower recovery times, and the presence of other health conditions. Also, men are often diagnosed much later than women, which complicates matters.
Awareness and timely medical care can make a profound difference.
Yes. While men have smaller amounts of breast tissue than women, cancer can still form in these cells. Most cases occur in older men.
Other factors to consider include hormone levels, radiation exposure, and genetic predisposition.
Not necessarily. The reason for higher mortality rates isn't linked to the cancer's aggression or spread itself, but rather how quickly the individual receives treatment. Delayed treatment means fighting an uphill battle.
The individual's biology is often similar. Late diagnosis makes the breast cancer appear more severe than it is in women.
Mammograms are not standard for men, but healthcare providers may recommend them if a man has significant risk factors. These risks include BRCA mutations or a strong family history.
In most cases, the disease is so rare that routine mammograms are not scheduled by default.
Yes. As awareness grows, more men are seeking care earlier, leading to better outcomes and survival rates.
It's important for men to understand that this diagnosis is not something to be ashamed of or avoid. Delayed treatment could mean putting their lives at greater risk.
Hormone therapy is often effective but may have side effects, especially in seniors. Doctors weigh risks and benefits for each individual. Someone in a more advanced age may not qualify for hormone therapy and may require an alternative form of treatment.
Breast cancer in men may be rare, but seniors should not ignore the possibility. Older men face unique risk factors, and recognizing the warning signs is essential for timely diagnosis. By focusing on early detection in men, the community can improve survival rates and quality of life.
The Lodge at Grand Junction is a senior living community specializing in assisted living and memory care. Residents can enjoy a pet-friendly atmosphere with access to a beauty salon, media room, and more. Reach out with any questions and to arrange for a tour.