TikTok Creator Breaks Stigma Around Male Breast Cancer

When Jake Messier first discovered a lump in his chest, he didn’t rush to the doctor. Like many men, he didn’t realize he could even get breast cancer, and that delay changed everything.

Now living with stage 4 estrogen receptor–positive invasive ductal carcinoma, Messier uses his platform as a TikTok content creator focused on metastatic breast cancer to break down stigma and raise awareness, especially for other men.

In this clip, he talks about the misconceptions that keep men silent. “Breast cancer is seen as a women’s disease,” he says, which can lead to shame and hesitation around seeking care. That delay is dangerous — and often deadly. Even after diagnosis, Messier says the experience can feel isolating. Brochures say “she,” mammogram offices aren’t built with men in mind, and pink campaigns rarely include male stories. That alienation, he explains, can make it harder for men to stay connected to their care.

Despite the challenges, Messier stays focused on his mission. Through honesty, education and visibility, he’s helping rewrite the narrative around who gets breast cancer — and who deserves to be seen.

Summary

What are some of the most common misconceptions that you encounter, and how do you address them in your advocacy?

Men have breast tissue too — it’s nothing to be embarrassed about. But because breast cancer is seen as a “women’s disease,” men often delay getting checked. I waited four months after finding a lump, thinking, “It can’t be that.” Many men wait even longer — and by then, it’s often advanced.

Once diagnosed, it can feel isolating. Everything is pink. Every brochure says “she” and “her.” Even something as routine as a mammogram feels jarring when it’s not designed with men in mind. That alienation makes it harder for men to stay engaged in treatment — and that affects outcomes.

The truth is, more men die from breast cancer simply because they’re unaware, uncomfortable or ashamed. That needs to change. Even though 96% of my social media audience is women, if 4% are men hearing this message, that’s a win.

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