Actor and former wrestler Tyler Mane recently announced his breast cancer diagnosis, encouraging men to be more vigilant about a disease often overlooked in males. Mane shared the news on Instagram, wanting to raise awareness about male breast cancer, a condition commonly detected at advanced stages with worse outcomes compared to women.
Dr. Harold Burstein, director of breast cancer education at the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, emphasized the importance of understanding that men can develop breast cancer, and the treatments are similar to those women undergo. He noted that, like in many cases involving women, the prognosis for men can be favorable with early and effective treatment.
This year, the American Cancer Society expects about 2,670 men to be diagnosed with invasive breast cancer, resulting in roughly 530 deaths. In comparison, about 321,910 new cases will be identified in women, with an estimated 42,140 female deaths.
The five-year survival rate for women can reach 99% if breast cancer is caught early, according to the American Cancer Society. However, if the disease spreads to other organs, the survival rate drops to 33%.
Mane highlighted that male breast cancer is treatable, but many men have not realized its possibility. Dr. Burstein remarked on the value of having open discussions about this issue. Dr. Ben Park, director of the Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center, pointed out the stigma associated with men having breast cancer, influenced by associations with the color pink and perceptions of masculinity.
Dr. Arif Kamal, chief patient officer for the American Cancer Society, expressed concern about late diagnoses in men due to a lack of awareness. He mentioned that men might dismiss a lump for months, only to discover it has become metastatic. In contrast, women typically respond to breast lumps with more urgency.
Signs of breast cancer in both genders include lumps, changes in breast shape, nipple discharge, and crusting. These symptoms require prompt attention regardless of gender.
Dr. Kamal hopes Mane’s openness will prompt men to discuss family medical histories and increase body awareness.
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