Breast cancer is more lethal in men than women

[WORLD] Breast cancer is often associated with women due to its prevalence, but recent studies have revealed a concerning reality: breast cancer is actually more deadly for men than for women. While it is far less common in men, the disease tends to be diagnosed at a later stage, making it harder to treat and increasing the likelihood of a poorer prognosis. This article explores the factors that contribute to this discrepancy and offers insight into the importance of early detection for men.

Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women worldwide. According to the American Cancer Society, roughly 1 in 8 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime. In contrast, breast cancer in men is rare. In fact, it is estimated that less than 1% of all breast cancer cases occur in men. Despite the lower incidence, men with breast cancer are more likely to experience severe outcomes.

While men’s smaller breast tissue may contribute to the lower number of cases, the disease itself behaves similarly in both genders. However, the survival rates differ significantly, and it all comes down to the unique challenges men face when it comes to diagnosis, treatment, and awareness.

Why is Breast Cancer Deadlier in Men?

Late Diagnosis
One of the primary reasons why breast cancer is more deadly for men than women is late diagnosis. Since men don’t commonly associate breast cancer with themselves, they are less likely to seek medical attention when symptoms arise. According to the study, men are often diagnosed at later stages, where the cancer has already spread to other parts of the body.

“Because men rarely think of themselves as being at risk for breast cancer, they tend to ignore symptoms until the disease has advanced,” says Dr. Emily Johnson, a leading oncologist at the National Cancer Institute. “This delay in seeking help significantly reduces survival rates.”

Limited Awareness and Knowledge
Awareness of breast cancer in men is minimal, both among the general public and healthcare professionals. While breast cancer is well-known in women, it is frequently overlooked when it comes to men, leading to missed opportunities for early screening and detection. Many men may not be familiar with the early warning signs of breast cancer, such as lumps in the breast or changes in skin texture, which can result in them not seeking medical help in time.

A recent report highlighted that a lack of public awareness regarding male breast cancer is contributing to delayed diagnoses and poor outcomes. “Most men don’t realize they can develop breast cancer,” says Dr. Karen Mills, a breast cancer specialist. “By the time they do, the cancer may have already spread, making treatment more difficult.”

Genetic Factors

Another contributing factor to the higher mortality rate in men is genetics. Studies show that men with a family history of breast cancer or certain genetic mutations, such as BRCA1 and BRCA2, are at an increased risk of developing the disease. However, men tend to receive less genetic counseling and testing than women, which leads to undiagnosed risks.

“There is a strong genetic component in breast cancer, and men with these mutations should be screened more regularly,” says Dr. Mills. “But genetic testing is not as widely recommended for men as it is for women, which means many at-risk men go undiagnosed.”

Hormonal Differences

Hormonal differences between men and women also play a role in how breast cancer develops and progresses. Women have higher levels of estrogen, a hormone that has been linked to the development of certain types of breast cancer. While men produce estrogen as well, their lower levels may influence the type and progression of the disease. This can result in a more aggressive form of breast cancer in men, which is harder to treat and leads to a higher mortality rate.

Statistics and Survival Rates

While breast cancer in men is rare, the statistics are alarming. The American Cancer Society estimates that in 2025, approximately 2,710 men in the United States will be diagnosed with breast cancer, and around 530 will die from the disease. These numbers may seem low compared to women, but the survival rate for men is significantly worse. A study from the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center found that the survival rate for men with breast cancer is about 10% lower than that of women.

In addition to late diagnoses, men with breast cancer are more likely to have aggressive subtypes, such as HER2-positive or triple-negative breast cancer, which do not respond as well to treatment. These aggressive forms of cancer contribute to the overall higher mortality rate in men.

Addressing the Gap: Raising Awareness and Improving Detection

One of the key ways to improve outcomes for men with breast cancer is through education and awareness. Health experts are calling for increased awareness campaigns targeting men, as well as more routine screening for those at high risk. Regular screening and early detection are essential in catching the disease before it becomes too advanced.

The study suggests that primary care physicians should be more proactive in educating their male patients about the risks of breast cancer, particularly for those with a family history or known genetic mutations. “Physicians should be more vigilant about considering breast cancer as a possibility in male patients, especially those who present with symptoms like lumps or changes in breast tissue,” says Dr. Johnson.

Additionally, there is a growing push for increased funding for male breast cancer research. According to experts, research into male breast cancer lags far behind that of female breast cancer, which limits the available treatment options and therapies for men.

Although breast cancer is much rarer in men than women, it is significantly more deadly for men. Late diagnosis, limited awareness, genetic factors, and hormonal differences all contribute to the higher mortality rates seen in men with breast cancer. Raising awareness, improving early detection, and increasing research funding are crucial steps toward closing the gap and improving survival rates for men.

As Dr. Mills aptly puts it, “Breast cancer in men is a serious health issue that requires more attention. The earlier we catch it, the better the chances of survival.”

The key takeaway is clear: breast cancer is not just a women’s issue. It is vital that we recognize and address the risks that men face, ensuring that they receive the same level of care and attention as women in the fight against this disease.