Why Should Men be aware about ‘Breast Cancer’

When one hears the term ‘Breast Cancer’ – it is involuntarily associated with women. This is mainly because breast cancer is common in females. However, men are also susceptible to it. Yes, around 140 men in Australia are diagnosed with breast cancer every year. Although this accounts for just 1% of the total cases, we cannot neglect the fact that men are prone to this disease as well.

Negligence is Dangerous!

Most cases of breast cancer in men are detected at a later stage. This could be because men are less likely suspicious.  Also, the amount of breast tissue in males makes it difficult to detect the lump at the initial stage. Consult the doctor even there’s a slight doubt in your mind. Do not wait until the symptoms become severe.

Reasons for Breast Cancer in Men

In very rare cases men under the age of 35 get diagnosed with breast cancer. The chance increases with age in men. In most cases, breast cancer in men occurs between the ages of 60 to 70. Although that these are not the only reasons, below listed are a few risk factors that may lead to breast cancer

·         History of radiation exposure to chest

·         Drug and hormone treatments leading to enlargement of breasts

·         Intake of estrogen

·         Liver cirrhosis

·         A testicle injury

·         Klinefelter's syndrome

Symptoms

Just like in women, the most common sign of breast cancer in men is the development of a non-painful firm mass just under the nipple. The cancer may also cause skin changes in the area such as ulceration of the skin, redness, skin dimpling, itching of the nipple, or retraction of the nipple. As the detection of cancer is quite late, the cancer may have also spread to the bones; causing bone pain. In some cases, the cancer that has reached to the advanced stage could also lead to weight loss and weakness; symptoms typical of other cancers.

Dealing with Breast Cancer

The treatment for breast cancer in men is similar to that in women; initial surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, hormonal therapy, and targeted therapy. The treatment of course depends upon the stage of the cancer and the physical condition of the patient.

Even if the disease is rare, one needs to be aware and stay alert. Negligence towards the facts is as dangerous as the disease itself. Stay aware, stay healthy!