Breast Cancer in Men: What Bonita Springs Seniors Should Know

Older adults in Bonita Springs, FL, who are wondering about breast cancer in men should know that this condition, although rare, can be life-threatening if not caught and treated early. Just as crucial is to understand that while it isn't completely preventable, there are ways to lower its risk of development.

Male breast cancer awareness is more crucial than ever, given the condition's increasing trend. As Johns Hopkins Medicine explains, breast cancer is over 100 times more common in women than in men, but male breast cancer's mortality rate is 25% higher. A primary factor believed to contribute to this is how men are less likely to detect the disease at its earlier stage.

To that end, the team at Discovery Village Bonita Springs, our retirement community in Bonita Springs, the hidden gem of Florida's Gulf Coast, put together this senior health education guide sharing insights into male breast cancer. 

What Are the Signs of Breast Cancer in Men? 

Some common indications of breast cancer in men include:

• Lumps or thickening in the breast tissue
• Changes in the breast's skin, such as redness, puckering, swelling, or dimpling
• Any unusual discharge from the nipple

Older male adults should also be cautious of enlarged or swollen lymph nodes in the armpit or collarbone.

What Are the Risk Factors for Breast Cancer in Men? 

Aging and cancer risk have a strong connection, something that applies to male breast cancer, too. While it can develop in men of all ages, it's more common among older adults. 

Other factors that can make men more likely to develop breast cancer include:

• A family history of breast cancer
• Inherited genetic mutations
• Radiation or hormone therapy exposure 
• Liver disease

The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases also says that overweight and obesity can make people at risk of at least 13 types of cancer (including breast cancer).

Is Breast Cancer Curable in Men? 

Yes, many cases of breast cancer in men, particularly those caught and treated early, are highly curable. According to the American Cancer Society (ACS), men diagnosed with localized breast cancer (cancer that doesn't exhibit signs of having spread outside of the breast) have a 5-year relative survival rate of 97%. 

Why Is Early Breast Cancer Detection Important? 

Early breast cancer detection is vital because it increases the recovery and survival rate of men diagnosed with this disease. The sooner it gets caught, the sooner treatment can begin, and the higher the likelihood of the disease staying localized. 

How Can Seniors in Bonita Springs Minimize Their Breast Cancer Risk? 

Healthy lifestyle choices and routine health screenings can help seniors in Bonita Springs, FL, lower their risk of developing or having advanced breast cancer. Here are some practical independent living wellness and assisted living prevention tips that you or your aging loved one can implement starting today.

Stay On Top of Your Weight 

As explained by the National Cancer Institute, too much body fat can increase a person's risk for several types of cancer, including breast cancer. 

Given the strong links between excess body fat and cancer, seniors in Bonita Springs should maintain a healthy weight. They can do so by engaging in regular physical activity. Another is by focusing on a well-balanced diet packed with just enough essential nutrients.

The importance of maintaining a healthy weight is something that our Bonita Springs senior living community recognizes. As such, we've designed exclusive health and wellness programs that empower our older residents to make healthier lifestyle choices and decisions. 

For one, we give our residents access to a robust calendar of daily physical activities. Delicious yet nutritious chef-prepared meals are also among the many health-focused amenities we offer here at Discovery Village Bonita Springs. 

Undergo Routine Screening

Routine breast cancer screening includes clinical breast exams and mammography. They can help with the early detection of breast cancer, making them integral to preventing a potential cancer from growing and spreading.   

Frequently Asked Questions 

How Does Body Fat or Obesity Impact Breast Cancer Risk?

Adipose (fat) tissue produces high levels of estrogen, a known cause of cancer.

People with obesity also have elevated levels of insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) and insulin. Both types of hormone have associations with higher risks of several cancers, such as those affecting the breast, thyroid, ovaries, and prostate. 

Obesity also often leads to chronic inflammation. Unfortunately, long-term inflammation can directly promote tumor growth.

At What Age Do Men Get Breast Cancer? 

Male breast cancer can occur at any age. However, most men diagnosed with this type of cancer are between the ages of 60 and 70, according to the non-profit organization National Breast Cancer Foundation, Inc. As for the average age of breast cancer diagnoses in men, it's 67. 

What Are the Other Benefits of Early Breast Cancer Detection?

Early detection of breast cancer in men also helps reduce the need for more aggressive treatments. It can even improve the overall quality of life, as it increases the chance of recovery by making the cancer more curable. 

Is Breast Cancer Hereditary? 

Yes, male breast cancer can be hereditary, which is why inherited gene mutations are among the risk factors for its development. 

Two of the most common genetic mutations that can increase a man's risk for this type of cancer are BRCA1 and BRCA2. Other mutations that may contribute to a heightened risk are CHEK2, PALB2, and PTEN. 

Genetic testing is available for the identification of these mutations. Men who have a known family history of cancers of the breast, ovary, and pancreas, and a personal history of pancreatic cancer, should consider undergoing these tests.  

Reduce Your Risks of Getting Male Breast Cancer

While breast cancer in men is far less common than female breast cancer, it still occurs, especially among older males. For this reason, senior men should focus on healthy lifestyle choices and getting routinely tested. 

At Discovery Village Bonita Springs, we understand just how devastating male or female breast cancer can be. As such, we prioritize health in aging by giving our residents access to health-centric amenities and services, including wellness programs, physical activities, and delicious yet nutritious chef-prepared meals. 

Connect with us today to learn more about our senior living community in Bonita Springs, FL!