Subtitle Forum: How Long Do Men Live After Breast Cancer?
Breast cancer is a rare diagnosis in men, but it does occur. According to the American Cancer Society, approximately 2,500 men in the United States will be diagnosed with breast cancer each year. And with any cancer diagnosis, the first question is often, “How long will I live?” Unfortunately, there is no “one size fits all” answer to this question.
Survival Rates
According to the American Cancer Society, the five-year survival rate for men diagnosed with breast cancer is 89 percent, which is slightly lower than the survival rate for women. However, this statistic does not take into account the individual’s age, how advanced the cancer is, or the type of treatment they are receiving.
Type of Cancer
The type of cancer a man has will play a role in how long he is likely to live. If the cancer is not localized—meaning it has not spread to other parts of the body—then the prognosis is generally better than if the cancer has spread. Additionally, if the cancer is hormone receptor-positive, meaning the cancer cells are stimulated by hormones, the prognosis is usually better than if the cancer is hormone receptor-negative.
Age
Age is also a factor in determining how long a man may live after being diagnosed with breast cancer. Men under the age of 40 are more likely to live longer than men over the age of 50. This is because younger men tend to have better overall health, and their bodies are better able to withstand the rigors of cancer treatment.
Treatment
The type of treatment a man receives will also play a role in how long he is likely to live. Generally, men with breast cancer will receive some combination of surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy. The type of treatment, as well as the duration of treatment, will have an impact on the man’s prognosis.
Overall, no one can predict how long a man will live after being diagnosed with breast cancer. The best way to determine a man’s prognosis is to consult with a doctor and have them evaluate the individual’s age, type of cancer, and treatment plan.