By Dr. Patrice Powell, DNP, AGNP-C | Board-Certified Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner | Founder, Outlier Health & Wellness
Quick Answer: Yes, men can get breast cancer. Male breast cancer makes up fewer than 1% of all breast cancers, but the American Cancer Society estimates about 2,670 men in the U.S. will be diagnosed in 2026. The most common sign is a painless lump under the nipple or areola. Risk rises with age, family history, and BRCA gene mutations, and Black men have the highest rates. October 18–24, 2026 is Male Breast Cancer Awareness Week.
Men Get Breast Cancer Too
Everyone has breast tissue, which means men can develop breast cancer too. Because many men don’t know this, they may ignore early changes, and their cancer is often found at a later stage. This Male Breast Cancer Awareness Week, Outlier Health & Wellness in Fresh Meadows, Queens wants every man to know the facts.
Male Breast Cancer by the Numbers
- About 2,670 men in the U.S. will be diagnosed with invasive breast cancer in 2026.
- About 530 men will die from breast cancer this year.
- A man’s average lifetime risk is about 1 in 755.
- Black men have the highest breast cancer incidence rate of any group of men.
Signs of Breast Cancer in Men
- A lump or swelling in the chest, often painless and under the nipple or areola
- A nipple that turns inward
- Nipple discharge, which may be clear or bloody
- Dimpling, puckering, redness, or scaling of the nipple or chest skin
- Swollen lymph nodes under the arm
These signs can also come from less serious conditions, such as gynecomastia (enlarged breast tissue). Any new change should still be checked by a provider.
Who Is at Higher Risk?
- Age: risk rises as men get older, and most are diagnosed later in life.
- Family history of breast cancer in men or women
- BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene mutations and other inherited mutations
- Higher estrogen levels from obesity, liver disease, or certain medications
- Klinefelter syndrome or certain testicular conditions
- Past radiation to the chest
- Heavy alcohol use
Male Breast Cancer FAQs
Can men really get breast cancer?
Yes. Men have breast tissue and can develop breast cancer. It accounts for fewer than 1% of breast cancers in the U.S., with about 2,670 men expected to be diagnosed in 2026.
What is the most common sign of breast cancer in men?
The most common sign is a painless lump or thickening in the chest, usually under the nipple or areola. Nipple changes, discharge, and skin dimpling are other warning signs.
Should men do breast self-exams?
Men should know how their chest normally looks and feels and report any new lump or change to a provider. Men at high risk, such as those with a BRCA mutation, should ask their provider about a screening plan.
Why are Black men at higher risk?
Black men have the highest breast cancer incidence rate among men in the U.S. and higher death rates than white and Hispanic men, which makes awareness and early evaluation especially important.
Where can men get a breast exam in Queens?
Outlier Health & Wellness provides primary care for patients 16 and older in its Fresh Meadows, Queens office and through house calls across Queens, Brooklyn, Nassau County, and Suffolk County. Call 888-855-2584 to schedule.
Early Detection Is Crucial
If you notice a change in your chest, don’t wait or feel embarrassed. Early detection makes treatment more effective. Our team can examine you, order imaging if needed, and connect you with specialists.
Call 888-855-2584 to schedule an appointment or house call. Monday–Friday 9 AM–6 PM, Saturday 10 AM–3 PM, by appointment only.
Share this with the men in your life. 💙🎗️
Statistics: American Cancer Society, Cancer Facts & Figures 2026; Susan G. Komen.