Not just for girls

Men are unaware how to recognise breast cancer symptoms, says Insurancewith.com

New online research conducted by leading specialist travel provider Insurancewith.com has found that men have varying levels of understanding and awareness of male breast cancer.

Research conducted by YouGov on behalf of Insurancewith.com found 24% of British men don’t think they will be diagnosed with breast cancer and this rises to more than four in ten (42%) of 18-24 year old males believing this.

Even though male breast cancer is rare, MaleBreastCancer.org states that less than 1% of all breast cancers occur in men; in 2016, around 2,600 men are expected to be diagnosed – this is a risk of 1/1,000. 83% of males aged 18-24 believe there is poor awareness of male breast cancer in the UK, with 13% unaware of how to recognise common breast cancer symptoms.

Men need to become aware that breast cancer is not just for women. Possible symptoms of breast cancer to watch out for include lumps and swelling, nipple retraction and discharge from the nipple.

The most concerned of all the age groups is the 18-24 year olds with over half (53%) worried about being diagnosed with any form of cancer in the future, with testicular cancer a particular concern among 38%.

Males aged 45-54 are the least worried (40%) about the possibility of being personally diagnosed with any type of cancer in the future of all the age groups. Breastcancercare.org state the risk of breast cancer increases as you get older, with most men developing the disease when they are over 60.

Sarah Page, brand manager of Insurancewith.com, said, “With Breast Cancer Awareness Month starting this October, it is important men understand how to recognise breast cancer symptoms, particularly among young males who seem to be the most worried but the least aware.

“Male breast cancer can exhibit the same symptoms as breast cancer in women with survival rates for men very similar to those of women. Therefore, men who notice anything unusual about their nipple or breast area should contact a doctor immediately. Early detection of breast cancer increases treatment options and reduces the risk of the cancer spreading.”