There is a popular misconception that breast cancer is a disease that only affects women, but it can affect anyone, no matter what their gender. Rod Ritchie, a male breast cancer survivor and advocate, is working to dispel this misconception, advocating for men with breast cancer to receive the recognition and support they deserve. In this interview, Rod discusses the stigma surrounding male breast cancer, critiques the pink-washing of breast cancer awareness and the exclusion of men from these campaigns, and shares his vision for a more inclusive approach to education and support in the future.

Rod, you’ve spoken about how the ‘Pinktober’ campaign can feel exclusionary to men with breast cancer, and how this can impact awareness, support, and even diagnosis for men. Can you elaborate on these impacts and suggest ways to create a more inclusive campaign?

The pink issue for men starts with many of them being unaware they are even susceptible to the disease. A subsequent later diagnosis can lead to a poorer prognosis. The pink charities need to double down on their efforts to explain and publicize the genderless nature of the disease.

You’ve mentioned that receiving a breast cancer diagnosis was especially challenging as a man. Can you tell us more about that?

My first emotion was the reminder that my mum died from breast cancer when I and my three brothers were young. That said, I quickly sought treatment and was pleased that the pink dollars had funded much research which obviously benefited all genders presenting for treatment.

You and Rob Fincher created the “Male Breast Cancer Manifesto”, which aims to raise awareness and improve outcomes for men diagnosed with breast cancer. Can you highlight some of its key action points,

The Manifesto is now seven years old and I’m really pleased to see how much progress has been made in achieving its goals. These include a reduction of sexual stereotyping, a day set aside in October for men, more inclusive imagery, and better information. Remaining on the list are, more research on men and the disease, and advocacy for screening programs for men with a genetic propensity and/or a family history of breast cancer. Unfortunately, Rob is not around to see if these last two points are achieved.

For someone who wants to raise the issue of male breast cancer but feels hesitant, what advice would you give them to confidently and constructively engage with a charity?

Breast cancer charities are generally keen to get feedback, so I’d say make a list of changes you’d like them to consider and send them to the director. And, if at first you don’t succeed, hang in there. All real change takes time.

Sharing personal stories is a powerful advocacy tool. What was the most impactful or surprising response you received after sharing your story publicly?

I was surprised by how readily and enthusiastically my story was received by the breast cancer community, how widely it was shared, and how much media attention I received. I must say this has kept me optimistic about change and is the reason I’m still on the case 10 years later.

Looking ahead, what are the most critical areas where you believe we need to focus our efforts to improve the support and outcomes for men with breast cancer?

More research on breast cancer in men and other genders would help refine treatments and improve their effectiveness. Additionally, providing better access to screening for everyone at risk is crucial for early detection and successful outcomes.

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About Rod Ritchie

Rod is a Sydney-born writer, internet publisher, and breast cancer patient activist, diagnosed in March 2014, with Stage IIIB IBC. Two years later, he was diagnosed with prostate cancer. Currently he’s NED for both cancers. He has a website MaleBC.org and you can follow him on X @malefitness.

Male Breast Cancer Manifesto

https://malebc.org/?page_id=875