ABUJA, Nigeria — Dr. Uche Nwokwu, the Coordinator of the National Cancer Control Programme (NCCP) at the Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, has warned that men with enlarged breasts are at a heightened risk of developing breast cancer.
In an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Saturday, April 12, 2025, Dr. Nwokwu explained that men, although less commonly affected by breast cancer than women, can still develop the condition due to the presence of breast tissue.
While rare, cases of male breast cancer have been recorded in Nigeria, and the NCCP is emphasizing the importance of public awareness on the matter.
According to Nwokwu, the primary factor contributing to breast development in men is the imbalance between male and female hormones, particularly estrogen and testosterone.
“The hormone that promotes breast development in women is also present in men,” Nwokwu stated.
“However, the higher levels of testosterone in men typically suppress this effect. When testosterone levels drop or there is an imbalance between the two hormones, estrogen can have a greater influence, potentially leading to gynecomastia, the enlargement of male breast tissue.”
He further explained that this condition, when combined with a dominant estrogen presence, can increase the likelihood of developing breast cancer.
“Once there’s a disruption in the body’s ability to regulate the cell ducts, it can trigger breast cancer,” he said.
Dr. Nwokwu also highlighted that the risk factors for breast cancer in men largely mirror those of women, although women are more prone due to the naturally more developed breast tissue and cell ducts.
He emphasized that men with larger breasts are more likely to develop the disease, although no man is entirely exempt.
“Any condition that lowers male hormones, whether due to illness or environmental factors, can cause an increase in female hormones. This imbalance can lead to gynecomastia, thereby raising the risk of breast cancer,” he noted.
Genetics is another significant risk factor. Nwokwu pointed out that men with a family history of breast cancer or those from genetically predisposed families should be particularly cautious, as environmental triggers can elevate their risk.
The NCCP coordinator also raised concerns about men who undergo hormone therapy to transition to a female body structure.
He warned that increased exposure to female hormones through such treatments could expose them to a higher risk of breast cancer.
“The more active female hormones can expose them to a higher risk,” Nwokwu said.
Regarding available data, Nwokwu explained that the number of breast cancer cases in men is often underreported, partly because men do not recognize the symptoms of the disease until they receive a proper diagnosis.
He acknowledged the lack of conclusive data on male breast cancer, which he attributed to challenges in cancer data collection.
However, he noted that the Federal Government has classified cancer as a reportable disease to enhance data gathering and improve diagnostic capabilities nationwide.
To reduce the risk of breast cancer, Dr. Nwokwu recommended that men regularly check their bodies for lumps or unusual growths, particularly in the breast area.
“Any abnormal growth should be investigated immediately. Tissue samples should be taken for laboratory diagnosis,” he advised.
