Breast Cancer in Men
Most people think of breast cancer as a women’s disease and generally speaking it is but it does occur in men. About 1% of breast cancer patients are men. Men diagnosed with breast cancer at an early stage have a good chance for a cure. The problem is that most men ignore the symptoms for one reason or another until the disease is more advanced.
The most common symptom for male breast cancer is a painless lump, usually right beneath the breast. Other symptoms include nipple discharge (clear or bloody), nipple retraction, nipple pain, sores on the nipple and areola and enlarged lymph nodes.
Enlargement of both breasts (gynecomastia) is not usually cancer but rather may be caused by medications, heavy alcohol use, weight gain or marijuana use.
Early diagnosis is really the key, just as it is for women. The important thing is to be aware that it can happen and if you notice any changes in your breasts, male or female, they should be checked out by your physician. Do not put it off. At DRA we have performed mammograms on men. As it is with women, early detection is the key!