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MEN CAN GET BREAST CANCER TOO!

Since breast cancer in men is so rare, it often goes undiagnosed with all-too-often deadly results. In 2009, 1920 new cases will be diagnosed and 440 men will die from the disease.  Although the lifetime risk for men getting breast cancer is 1%, when it happens it is always a surprise to the man, his family and his doctor.  1% may seem like an inconsequential number except if your loved one or you are part of that statistic.

We must get the word out to the men in our lives that they too can get breast cancer and need to look for the following signs and be proactive to get a biopsy.

Inverted nipple

Stinging sensation under the nipple

Discharge/bleeding from the nipple

Dimpling of the breast

A lump or cyst-like bump 

Hardness in an area

Early detection is always the key to a successful treatment plan. Don’t think the symptom will go-away or it’s nothing to worry about.  Insist on a biopsy. Since men do not have the breast mass that women do, cancer can spread more rapidly into the chest cavity and they are more likely to be diagnosed in the later stages of the disease impacting the lymph nodes.  85% of all male breast cancer patients are positive for estrogen- receptor tumors. The average age for a male to be diagnosed is 67 compared to a women at 62 but it can happen to anyone….

Monthly breast exams are no longer just for women. .. be aware and be proactive!