What to expect from hormone therapy for breast cancer in men

Many breast cancers in men are checked for hormone receptors. When receptors are present, a medicine can block oestrogen from reaching cancer cells or alter how the body handles hormone signals. A tablet is commonly used, and it may follow surgery or accompany other treatment. Your team will consider the cancer's stage, receptor findings, other illnesses and medicines when choosing the plan.

Possible changes include hot flushes, sweating, tiredness, mood changes, lower sexual desire, erectile difficulties, weight changes or breast tenderness. Joint aches and changes in bone strength can also matter during longer treatment.

Take the medicine at the agreed time and tell your team before changing or stopping it. Report sexual, emotional or physical effects plainly; these are recognised treatment concerns and can often be addressed. Discuss bone health, cholesterol, blood clots, liver problems, fertility, contraception and supplements. Keep follow-up visits so examination, blood tests or scans can be arranged when needed.

Contact your care team for a new breast or chest-wall lump, nipple change, persistent bone pain, troublesome mood symptoms or side effects that impair daily life. Get urgent help for sudden chest pain, severe breathlessness, coughing blood, or painful swelling of one leg. These warning symptoms need immediate assessment.

Ask whether the tumour is hormone-receptor positive, why this medicine fits your results, and how long treatment is expected to continue. Ask how sexual health, mood, bones and cardiovascular risks will be monitored, which symptoms are urgent, and what alternatives are available if the effects are hard to manage.