Breast cancer in men: Emasculation by association?

The occurrence of breast cancer in men is rare in comparison to women. Publ ic knowledge that men can get breast cancer and of male breast self-examina tion are lacking. Research in the course and treatment of breast cancer in men is needed. Men generally present in more advanced stages of breast canc er than women, and have a poorer prognosis. In this article, the epidemiolo gy, common symptoms, diagnostic methods, and current treatment of breast ca ncer in men are described. Gender differences in presentation and course of illness are discussed. Additionally, the psychological implications of bre ast cancer for male gender roles and masculine identity are explored. Direc tions for further investigation are given. Treatment providers are encourag ed to educate themselves and their male patients on breast cancer in men an d male breast examination techniques so that this disease may be identified earlier in its course and survival rates improved.