How can male breast cancer be treated and monitored?

Question

Hello doctor,

My father’s 58-year-old colleague was diagnosed with male breast cancer two months ago. Honestly, none of us even knew men could get this disease, so we were completely taken aback. He says he still feels a lump even after the surgery does that mean it was not fully removed? Also, are there support groups for male breast cancer patients? He feels out of place because all the information he is finding seems aimed at women. What can we suggest to help him manage both the treatment and the mental toll? Do the risks of recurrence differ between men and women?

Kindly suggest.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I went through your query and understood your concern.

Male breast cancer is much rarer than female breast cancer, which is why it is not widely discussed. However, men do have breast tissue, and although the risk is lower, they can develop breast cancer.

If he still feels a lump after surgery, it could mean:

Post-surgical scar tissue.
Residual tumor (if the cancer was not fully removed, it might still be present).
Swelling or fluid buildup.

He should follow up with his oncologist and may need imaging (ultrasound or magnetic resonance imaging) to confirm what is going on. He may also experience some treatment side effects. Since most male breast cancers are hormone receptor-positive, he might be prescribed anti-estrogen therapy. This can have side effects such as mood changes, hot flashes, and fatigue. A therapist experienced in cancer care can help with emotional struggles.

Many men with breast cancer feel isolated because most resources are geared toward women. Here are some places where he can find support like the Male Breast Cancer Coalition, the American Cancer Society’s Reach Recovery Program, and online communities.

Staying active can help combat fatigue and improve mood. He should engage in regular exercise and eat healthy, balanced meals. Men tend to be diagnosed at later stages, so the risk of recurrence is often higher. He must go for regular checkups even after complete recovery.

If he has not been tested for genetic factors such as the BRCA2 (Breast Cancer Gene 2) mutation, it is worth checking, as BRCA2 mutations increase male breast cancer risk and could affect his family. If he has this mutation, his blood relatives are also at risk.

I hope this helps.

Thank you.