Breast Cancer in Men

Some may not believe it but it's true, breast cancer is not just a woman's disease, men can get it too. Though it's far less common than in women, it is possible for them to develop breast cancer because like us, they have breast tissue. One in every 100 cases of breast cancer is a man and it occurs more commonly in those aged 50 years and older, African-Americans, those exposed to radiation therapy, and those with family history of breast cancer.


image source: koshishbreastcancer.org

All men are potentially at risk and should begin doing breast self-exams just like what we do, lying flat with the arm raised above the head, checking for lumps beneath the nipple. A painless lump in the breast close to the nipple is the most common symptom. If the lump is found to be malignant, your doc may recommend breast removal. Other symptoms to look for are: discharge from the nipple, a change in the shape and appearance of the nipple, a change in the shape and appearance of the breast (such as swelling and dimpling), nipple retraction, redness or scaling of the nipple or breast skin, pain, and swollen lymph nodes (glands) under the arm. If you find any of these, it is important to see a doctor as soon as possible because finding it early means a better chance of effective treatment.

sources: imaginis.com, breasthealth.com

8 comments:

Eduardo said...

This is a very serious subject & Mommy is going to have to talk to Daddy tonight. Thanks for the info.
Hugs & Snugs
Eduardo the Snuggle Puggle

Anonymous said...

Very good post. It is very important to check ourselves for monthly breast exam.

Sendo said...

i've heard about male breast cancer before...but, it's not really that common hehe....

Cascia Talbert said...

I didn't know that men could develop breast cancer too. Thank you for sharing!

Anonymous said...

My grandfather actually died from breast cancer -
And was advised to make sure my two sons, stay aware.
It actually is quite serious ...
dawn @ iowahippiechick

HEALTH NUT WANNABEE MOM said...

I had no idea about breast cancer in men. wow! Thanks!

Tina @ The Zoo Crew said...

Thank you for posting this! Breast cancer awareness just drives me batty; pink ribbons, pink products, only focusing on women. I just do not get it.

My father passed away of male breast cancer in 2005. He went on local news shows trying to get the word out. He even wanted to start a campaign creating a pink AND blue ribbon, but no one bit. We had our own ribbons that we wore for quite a while.

The thing that got the attention of the doctors was his inverted nipple. My young son, at the time, asked him, "Why does your nipple look like that, Grandpa?" So, my dad asked at his next doctor visit. The rest is history.

Diana Yusuf said...

congrats!! for u
hi....was here blogwalking, can we make a friends in the daya of valentine?..happy valentine day for u my friends

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