A study of men with a family history of breast cancer revealed that nearly 80% were unaware of their own risk for breast cancer, and all of them said that their healthcare provider had not discussed the disease with them.
The findings, published in the October issue of the American Journal of Nursing, provide “a first step toward an improved understanding about men's perceptions and knowledge of male breast cancer," said author Eileen Thomas, assistant professor at the College of Nursing, University of Colorado Denver and advisory board member of the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment's Breast and Cervical Cancer Screening Program.
The qualitative study used a descriptive study design to explore awareness and knowledge of male breast cancer among 28 English-speaking men 30 years or older. None of the participants had a history of breast cancer but all had at least one maternal blood relative with the disease.
Of the 28 men, 22 (79%) reported that they were not aware, and were surprised to find out, that men could get breast cancer. A majority of them could not identify any symptoms other than a lump in the breast, and 12 (43%) reported that they were unaware of the risk factor for breast cancer in men. All 28 said that their primary healthcare provider never mentioned male breast cancer to them even though all may be at higher risk for the disease because of family history.
Twelve (43%) indicated that being diagnosed with breast cancer might cause them to question their masculinity. Socioeconomic status, as indicated by occupation and religious affiliation, were not indicators of participants' awareness or knowledge of male breast cancer, although three were healthcare providers.
All the men said it was important to educate men about male breast cancer, especially those with a family history of the disease, and that efforts to reach men in the community are needed.