Risk Factors for Male Breast Cancer

Male breast cancer (MBC) presents problems with identification of high-risk groups. Risk factors include hepatic dysfunction, high ambient working temperature, exposure to exhaust fumes and obesity, but none identify a group with a high absolute number of MBC cases. The two significant cohorts are BRCA2 mutation carriers and individuals with Klinefelter's syndrome (KS), responsible for up to 15% of cases. Since >90% of male tumours are ER+ve, endocrine intervention is logical with the likely agent being tamoxifen. In terms of an acceptable endocrine agent, compliance studies. Compliance studies indicate that men do not tolerate tamoxifen well because of side-effects. Although certain groups with an increased risk of MBC can be identified, the absolute number of cases is small so, at present, a meaningful prevention study is not an option.