Cancer in men
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Summary
10 papers analyzed
These studies suggest that cancer in men includes breast, testicular, and prostate cancers, with risk factors such as genetic predispositions, hormonal imbalances, and environmental factors, and emphasize the importance of early detection and tailored treatments.
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Cancer in Men: An Overview
Breast Cancer in Men: Risk Factors and Diagnosis
Incidence and Risk Factors
Breast cancer in men is a rare condition, accounting for less than 1% of all breast cancer cases and less than 1% of all cancers in men . Approximately 1,500 new cases are diagnosed annually in the United States, with around 400 deaths . Key risk factors include genetic predispositions such as BRCA2 mutations, which significantly increase the risk, while BRCA1 mutations are less commonly associated . Other risk factors include a family history of breast cancer, Jewish ancestry, and conditions that alter the estrogen/androgen balance, such as Klinefelter syndrome, obesity, and liver diseases .
Diagnosis and Clinical Presentation
Men with breast cancer often present with a painless subareolar mass, but due to a lack of awareness, diagnosis is frequently delayed, leading to advanced-stage presentations . Diagnostic methods include mammography, ultrasound, and biopsy, similar to those used in women. Early diagnosis is crucial for effective treatment and better prognosis.
Treatment and Prognosis
Treatment for male breast cancer generally follows protocols established for female breast cancer, including surgery, radiation, and hormone therapy, particularly given the high rate of hormone receptor-positive tumors in men . The stage at diagnosis and lymph node involvement are critical prognostic indicators.
Testicular Cancer: Epidemiology and Survivorship
Incidence and Risk Factors
Testicular cancer is the most common malignancy among men aged 14 to 44, with increasing incidence in Western countries over the past two decades. Cryptorchidism is the most significant risk factor, along with genetic and environmental influences.
Treatment and Quality of Life
The combination of surgery and cisplatin-based chemotherapy has led to a cure rate exceeding 90%. However, survivors often face physical, emotional, and sexual challenges post-treatment. Men who undergo chemotherapy or radiotherapy report more significant psychological and sexual dysfunction compared to those who only have surgical intervention. Support systems, including partners and employment, play a crucial role in post-treatment adjustment.
Prostate Cancer: Management in Older Men
Incidence and Risk Factors
Prostate cancer is the most prevalent cancer in men, particularly affecting those aged 70 and above . The median age at diagnosis is 68 years, with two-thirds of prostate cancer-related deaths occurring in men aged 75 and older.
Diagnosis and Treatment
Prostate cancer is typically diagnosed through prostate-specific antigen (PSA) testing and digital rectal examination, followed by biopsy. Treatment options for localized disease include active surveillance, radical prostatectomy, and radiotherapy, while advanced cases may require androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) and chemotherapy. Management should be tailored to the individual’s health status rather than chronological age, with a focus on maintaining quality of life.
Conclusion
Cancer in men, though less common in certain types like breast cancer, presents unique challenges in diagnosis, treatment, and survivorship. Awareness and early detection are crucial for improving outcomes. Tailored treatment approaches and robust support systems are essential for managing the physical and psychological impacts of cancer in men. Further research is needed to address gaps in knowledge and improve care for male cancer patients.
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