According to the Cancer Association of South Africa (CANSA) Fact Sheet (2022), there were 207 histologically-diagnosed male breast cancer cases in South Africa, giving an estimated lifetime risk of about 1 in 930 for males overall.
By population group: Black males: 123 cases (lifetime risk ~ 1 in 1,015)
White males: 55 cases (lifetime risk ~ 1 in 1,713)
The same source indicates that male breast cancer accounted for ~ 0.49% of all cancer diagnoses in men in 2022.
Other South African sources report that male breast cancer represents about 1 – 3% of all breast cancer cases in South Africa (which is higher than typically quoted global figures of <1%).
Age at diagnosis: In a study from Mankweng Academic Hospital (2015-2023), the mean age for men diagnosed was ~ 62.5 years; the majority (76.5 %) were older than 50.
Stage at diagnosis: In that same hospital study, of 17 male cases analysed, ~ 59% (10/17) presented at Stage III, ~ 24% at Stage II, ~ 12% at Stage I.
Awareness and delayed diagnosis: Many men present later because they don’t always recognise that men can get breast cancer; this has implications for worse outcomes.
Interpretation / important points
Although male breast cancer remains rare, in South Africa the proportion of breast cancers that occur in men seems somewhat higher (~1 – 3%) than the global figure of <1%.
The lifetime risk (1 in ~930 for males overall) is still low compared to female breast cancer risk, but it’s non-negligible and warrants awareness.
Men are being diagnosed mostly in older age (50+), and a large share present at advanced stage (Stage III or later) which is associated with worse prognosis.
Ethnic differences are suggested (e.g., different lifetime risk by population group), although full cause-and-effect data are limited.
Because of the later stage at diagnosis and low public awareness that men can get breast cancer, there is a need for improved awareness, earlier detection in men, and ensuring that healthcare access and education incorporate this risk.
STEPS TO TAKE
🧠 1. Awareness — Know that men can get breast cancer
Many men delay seeking help because they don’t realise breast cancer affects men too.
Early detection dramatically improves survival: studies show 5-year survival rates can exceed 80–90% if caught early, but drop sharply for late-stage cases.
(Source: Cancer Research UK, 2024; CANSA, 2024)
✅ Action: Talk openly about breast cancer risk among men; include it in community and workplace health education.
👀 2. Self-Check and Early Detection
Men have small amounts of breast tissue behind and around the nipple — the most common site for male breast cancer.
✅ Monthly self-examination is recommended:
Stand in front of a mirror with your arms by your side and then raised overhead.
Look for:
A lump or swelling (especially under or around the nipple)
Skin changes (dimpling, redness, thickening)
Nipple retraction (turning inward)
Nipple discharge (clear or bloody)
Ulceration or scaling around the nipple
If any of these appear, see a doctor immediately.
(Adapted from Cancer Association of South Africa – CANSA Men’s Health Awareness, 2024)
🧬 3. Genetic and Family Risk Management
Men with a family history of breast cancer or known BRCA2 mutation have higher risk.
✅ Actions:
Discuss your family cancer history with your doctor.
If there are multiple relatives with breast or ovarian cancer, ask for genetic counselling/testing.
Relatives may also benefit from screening if a genetic link is found.
(Source: Macmillan Cancer Support, 2023; National Cancer Registry SA, 2022)
⚖️ 4. Maintain Healthy Weight and Hormonal Balance
Obesity increases estrogen levels, which can promote breast cancer growth in men.
✅ Prevention tips:
Keep a healthy weight (BMI < 25).
Exercise regularly (at least 150 minutes/week of moderate activity).
Limit alcohol intake (as alcohol increases estrogen production and liver stress).
Manage liver health — chronic liver disease (cirrhosis) increases risk due to altered hormone metabolism.
(Source: World Health Organization – Cancer Prevention Recommendations, 2023)
🩺 5. Regular Health Screenings
Men with high risk (e.g., BRCA2 carriers or Klinefelter syndrome) should undergo:
Clinical breast exams (every 6–12 months)
Mammograms or ultrasound if indicated by a physician
Even average-risk men should have a routine check-up once a year where breast and chest area are examined.
(Source: American Cancer Society, 2025; CANSA Men’s Health Check Guidelines, 2024)
💬 6. Overcoming Stigma and Seeking Care Early
Cultural attitudes and stigma often delay men from reporting symptoms — especially in South Africa.
✅ Community-based approaches:
Men should seek medical advice early and not “wait to see if it goes away.”
Encourage men’s groups, churches, and clinics to include male breast health in Movember and other awareness events.
(Source: ASAIPA, 2022; CANSA, 2024)