Health Tips

Breast cancer is thought to be synonymous with women. However, an estimated 1,600 American men are diagnosed each year. Two-thirds will survive due to seeking medical attention for questionable or new abnormalities.

Men do not have milk glands but do have ducts. Breast cancer in males generally develop in the ducts, lymph nodes, or behind the nipple. It most often appears as a hard and sometimes painful knot. Men with prominent pectoral muscles or very little fat on their chests recognize lumps almost immediately since they are more easily seen and felt. Other symptoms include nipple discharge, skin redness or puckering, or an inverted nipple.

See your doctor for any symptoms. First you will be assessed in an office visit. Then tests may be ordered. Common exams are mammogram and ultrasound. Since male breasts differ from the female’s, the mammogram is more easily tolerated by men. The worst part may be your pride, but it is worth a few minutes of slight discomfort as opposed to developing a full blown disease.

Luckily most lumps in male breasts are gynecomastia, which are non-cancerous. They are normally caused by hormone imbalance or some common prescription medications. Though some believe they are caused by prior or current marijuana use, others insist that no evidence supports this theory.

See your doctor regarding concerns. Stay or become physically fit, lose extra weight, and maintain strong pecs. Breast cancer doesn’t just affect females. But the masculinity is found in taking care of your health.