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Male breast cancer is far less common than breast cancer in women, but it is usually discovered later: Men with breast cancer often receive the diagnosis after finding a breast lump on their own. Kathryn Ruddy, M.D., an oncologist at Mayo Clinic Comprehensive Cancer Center, explains key things to know about male breast cancer.

A lump is the most common symptom of male breast cancer, but there can also be discharge from the nipple or pain in the breast area. A breast lump is usually firmer than the surrounding tissue and may have irregular edges; because men have less breast tissue, the lump is often close to the nipple, Ruddy explains. As in females, the most common breast cancer in males is ductal carcinoma.

"Since breast cancer screenings, such as mammograms and breast exams, aren't typically recommended for men, they usually find a lump on their own," Ruddy says. "If men notice an unusual lump, experience nipple discharge or have chest or breast discomfort, they should seek medical attention promptly to determine the cause."

The risk for breast cancer in males increases with age and is higher in those who have a family history of breast cancer, especially male breast cancer, Ruddy adds. Some genetic mutations such as BRCA1 and BRCA2 also are known risk factors. Those with Klinefelter syndrome, a rare condition that occurs when men have an extra X chromosome, also are at higher risk.

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