Let’s be Upfront about the fact that men get breast cancer too. 63 year-old Tasmanian Phil Purnell had no idea that men could get breast cancer when he found a lump in his breast and was diagnosed with invasive ductal carcinoma (stage 2 breast cancer) in March. In this episode, Phil shares a candid insight in to his breast cancer journey as a man, which was further complicated by the COVID-19 pandemic.Also joining us is breast cancer specialist, radiation oncologist and author, Professor John Boyages, who has written booklets on the subject of male breast cancer.This episode covers:* the shock of diagnosis when Phil had no idea that men even could get breast cancer* why breast cancer isn’t as common in men* the role of genetics in the male breast cancer experience* the impact of a breast cancer diagnosis on male fertility and notions of masculinity* the experience of treatment and options available to men* the physical and psychological impact of breast cancer treatment.RESOURCES:* Sign up for the My Journey online tool (https://www.myjourney.org.au/), which has a range of resources available for men diagnosed with breast cancer, including information on support and treatment specifically for men.* Visit our Online Network, where you will find a dedicated discussion group for men diagnosed with breast cancer. (https://onlinenetwork.bcna.org.au/)Upfront About Breast Cancer is a production of Breast Cancer Network Australia. Our theme music is by the late Tara Simmons, and this episode is proudly brought to you by Dry July.(https://www.bcna.org.au/media/7348/dry-july_cc_proudly-supported-by_logo.png?width=284&height=86&mode=max)Want to get in touch? Visit our website at bcna.org.au (https://www.bcna.org.au/), email us at [email protected] (mailto:[email protected]), or call our Helpline on 1800 500 258