Who is Most at Risk for Gynecomastia?

Gynecomastia is a common male breast disorder that affects between 50 and 65% of boys and men worldwide. It is caused by an imbalance in testosterone and estrogen levels, and can occur in newborn babies, adolescent boys around puberty, and older men. Gynecomastia is most often seen in preadolescent or adolescent children going through the hormonal changes of puberty. However, it can also affect newborns and men as they age.

Men with Klinefelter syndrome may have a higher risk of developing gynecomastia and male breast cancer. A study of 2,400 men with breast cancer and 52,000 men without breast cancer found that obesity, Klinefelter syndrome, and gynecomastia were all associated with an increased risk of male breast cancer. Although having gynecomastia does not significantly increase the risk of developing breast cancer, it is important to be aware of this condition. Men with liver disease may also have a greater chance of developing benign male breast growth (gynecomastia) and a higher risk of developing breast cancer.