Breast cancer as we all believe could occur in women only but reports have suggested that though the percentage may be quite less but yes men too could suffer from breast cancer. And often it is more deadly for the simple reason that it is too late when diagnosed. It is approximately at 60 years of age when it is diagnosed and by that time the tumor has grown very large. They become later stage tumors and involve lymph nodes and spread to other body parts as well.
As women are encouraged to go for frequent mammograms when they reach the age of 40, so the cancer gets diagnosed before and could be treated. There is much need for encouraging men also to undertake the mammogram to increase the survival rates. Some symptoms could also help men to diagnose whether they suffer from breast cancer. Though it would be the doctor who would give the final word but you would notice the first signs. Let us know what the symptoms are.
Though mammograms are a sure short way to diagnose this cancer but every man need not undertake this test. The first step is a physical examination which man could perform on his own. If there is any lump it could be easily noticed as there are much less breast tissue in men than women. And if the cancer has advanced men could notice it easily. The lump would appear red and there would be some irritation near the lump area. There would be no pain as the lump of breast cancer is not painful.
Whenever you notice any new lump formation in your breast, you should not waste time and report the matter to your doctor. He would examine you and would also collect information like any family history of breast cancer and also could ask you about any radiation exposure in the past. Even if you have taken medicines like antiandrogens or estrogens you could suffer from breast cancer as such medicines have a direct and powerful impact on the male hormone levels. .
If the doctor smells of something suspicious he could advise you to undergo a mammogram or a breast sonogram to clear any doubts. And if the lump appears to be cancerous the doctor might even ask to do a biopsy. It is important that even men increase their knowledge about this cancer and whenever they notice any abnormal change in the breast area, they should go to the doctor and talk to him. It could be a non cancerous lump which could be formed due to other health issues you have. But yes do not ignore them.
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