Observed every October, Breast Cancer Awareness Month is an international health campaign that aims to promote screening and reduce the risk of the disease. While breast cancer predominantly affects women, a common misconception is that men cannot develop the disease.
Breast cancer affects people of all genders and ages. Over a lifetime, 1 in 8 women and 1 in 726 men, have a chance of developing breast cancer in the U.S. This month, we particularly recognize Men’s Breast Cancer Awareness Week, which takes place between October 17 and October 23, highlighting the importance of early detection.
PFRPA strategic alliance partner Breastcancer.org is a leading patient-focused resource for breast health and breast cancer education and support. Breastcancer.org also served as a valuable source of information for this article, providing educational materials on breast cancer awareness, early detection and male breast cancer.
Men’s Breast Cancer Awareness Week
Men’s Breast Cancer Awareness Week was officially designated in 2021 to reduce the social stigma and lack of awareness around male breast cancer. Many men do not realize that they can develop breast cancer, often resulting in a later stage diagnosis when it is more challenging to treat.
Risk factors for cisgender men developing breast cancer include growing older, a family history of breast cancer, higher estrogen levels, as well as radiation or toxic exposures. Men are not typically screened for breast cancer and are therefore not usually on the lookout for changes in their breast tissue, chest or armpits due to a lack of awareness.
Retired NFL player and PFRPA member Paul Dombroski knows firsthand the impact breast cancer can have on males after he was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2013.
Read Paul’s story at People.com to learn more about his experience and the importance of raising awareness about male breast cancer. You can also learn more about male breast cancer at Breastcancer.org.
The Importance of Education and Early Detection
Breast cancer is easier to treat when detected early. Early detection may allow for less aggressive treatment and reduce the risk of death from the disease. Screening tests, such as mammograms, look for breast cancer in individuals who haven’t developed obvious signs or symptoms of the disease. Regular screening tests are the best way to detect breast cancer as early as possible.
Doctors can also conduct a breast cancer risk assessment to determine if there is an average, intermediate or high risk of developing breast cancer in an individual. Screenings are completed with physical exams or imaging tests.
Individuals should consult their healthcare provider to determine the screening schedule that best fits their age, individual risk factors, as well as personal and family medical history.
Continuing Awareness Beyond October
While Breast Cancer Awareness Month takes place in October, breast health education and awareness remains important year-round. Staying informed about breast cancer symptoms and risk factors; supporting those affected by breast cancer; and connecting individuals with trusted educational resources are important ways to keep the conversation going.
For more information about breast cancer, early detection and risk factors, explore the educational resources available at Breastcancer.org.
