Isn the rate of breast cancer rising among men? Are heavier men at higher risk?
Our researchers have not seen information that would indicate that the rate of male breast cancer is rising. It may appear to be rising because awareness of male breast cancer is increasing (e.g. public service TV ads and other items in the media about it). Regarding weight, some studies appear to indicate that increased weight is associated with a higher risk of male breast cancer. Breast cancer in men is rare, however, which makes it difficult (or at least very expensive) to do appropriate epidemiologic research on risk factors.
