Long considered an exclusively female disease, breast cancer also affects men—although cases remain rare. This unknown reality often leads to late diagnosis and a heavy silence. Yet, awareness could save many lives.

A rare, but very real disease

Male breast cancer accounts for less than 1% of all cases worldwide. According to international data, approximately 1 in 700 to 800 men may develop this form of cancer during their lifetime.

Often, the disease is detected late, because neither patients nor doctors immediately think about this possibility. This lack of awareness delays diagnosis and reduces the chances of recovery .

The symptoms are, however, similar to those observed in women:

-a mass or swelling in the breast,

- nipple retraction,

-an abnormal discharge,

-or persistent redness of the skin.

Any suspicious sign should lead to rapid medical consultation .

The case of Africa: raising awareness to save

In Africa, breast cancer—primarily among women—remains the most common cancer. According to estimates from the World Health Organization (WHO) and GLOBOCAN, more than one million new cases of cancer were recorded on the continent in 2020, and this figure continues to rise.

Breast cancers are often diagnosed at an advanced stage due to a lack of early screening.

And for men, the situation is even more worrying: cases exist, but are rarely identified, monitored, or even counted . Lack of information and stigma exacerbate the delay in diagnosis.

In Ivory Coast, for example, doctors observe that male breast tumors are often detected too late , making treatments more complex.

Risk factors to be aware of

In men, several factors can increase the risk of breast cancer:

Age (risk increases after 60 years),

Family history or the presence of a genetic mutation (particularly of the BRCA2 gene ),

Obesity or hormonal imbalances,

Exposure to radiation ,

And certain liver diseases or gynecomastia (development of breast tissue).

The treatments are similar to those for women: surgery, radiotherapy, hormone therapy or chemotherapy depending on the stage of the disease.

Breaking the taboo: men must talk about it too

The biggest challenge remains silence . Because breast cancer is perceived as a "female" disease, many men hesitate to seek help, out of embarrassment or fear of judgment.

However, inclusive and appropriate communication can change the situation.

Awareness campaigns – often focused on women – should also remind us that men are not spared .

A few words, a visual or a male testimony can make all the difference.

A key message: screening is also for them

When faced with a suspicious symptom, it's important not to minimize or delay. Male breast cancer exists, and the earlier it's detected, the more effectively it can be treated.

Talking about it openly is already a step towards prevention and life.