Breast cancer is one of the most common forms of cancer for South African women of all races, with a lifetime risk of one in 27.
The risk for breast cancer increases as a person gets older, but many women under 40 years have been diagnosed with it.
Although male breast cancer is rare, the Breast Health Foundation recorded that in South Africa, 1% to 3% of all breast cancer occurrences happen in men. According to the latest data from the National Cancer Registry, men have a one in 943 lifetime risk of developing breast cancer.
Many men do not know they can get breast cancer. They may not notice a change, think of it as not important, or may be embarrassed to say anything. This can delay a diagnosis.
As a result, breast cancers may be found later in men. The male breast is much smaller than the female, making it more likely that cancer will spread to the chest wall.
Men can lower their cancer and health risk by cutting out lifestyle factors that increase their risk of developing cancer risk.
Learn to recognise warning signs. Annual medical check-ups and cancer screening appointments can help early detection, as symptoms do not always present until the cancer has spread.
Much can be done to spread awareness about breast cancer. – The Cancer Association of South Africa (CANSA)
