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The experiences of men with breast cancer
The aim of our study was to investigate the experiences of men with breast cancer across the United Kingdom. It was a multi-phase study using (a) focus groups (n=4) with men and women with breast cancer and with healthcare professionals; (b) questionnaires to men with breast cancer (n=161); (c) follow-up interviews with these men (n=30) and (d) reconvening the focus groups (n=2) for the men and women with breast cancer. We found that the majority of men (84%, n=135) reported their symptoms early, but were shocked to receive a breast cancer diagnosis. Disclosure of the diagnosis was commonly made to partners (80%, n=129) and other close family and was influenced by perceptions of embarrassment, stigma and altered body image. Very little information was available to participants; that which was available was often inappropriate as it was intended for women. Over half the sample wanted much more information (56%, n=90). This study also demonstrates low utilisation of formal support services. Initiatives are needed to improve the information and support provided to men with breast cancer after diagnosis and treatment, as well as increasing the profile of breast cancer in men generally amongst healthcare professionals and the public. Breast cancer in men is an under-researched area in comparison to a range of other cancers and to breast cancer in women. Despite the growing profile of men’s health, the extent of ignorance about breast cancer in men is a cause for concern. The risk of breast cancer for most men is low, but neither individual men nor their doctors regularly examine men’s breasts, so men will continue to present with more advanced cancers than women. Many people in this study were surprised to learn that men can “get” breast cancer. Considerable work is needed to raise the profile of breast cancer in men amongst the general public, some of which ought to be performed in places where men congregate such as pubs, gyms and clubs. Men’s health needs to be examined in context, with an understanding of the diversity of men’s experiences and recognising multiple masculinities. We also need to develop more innovative ways to facilitate men with expressing their healthcare needs in the future. This study illustrates that given the time, opportunity and support men have valuable and constructive things to say about the way their breast cancer care should be delivered. Future prospective studies of representative samples are needed to explore the experiences of men as they progress through every stage of their diagnosis, treatment and care.
Bibliographical reference:
Rachel Iredale Institute of Medical Genetics, School of Medicine, Cardiff University, United Kingdom
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