Male Breast Cancer, Know its Symptoms and prevention
In the United States, breast cancer cases have risen sharply among men living and working near Ground Zero, the World Trade Center. According to a report in the New York Post, the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has confirmed breast cancer in 91 men so far. It’s worth noting that this figure is for the year 2024. This number is six times higher than the number of cases reported in 2018 and 90 times higher than the US national average.
Experts say this is concerning because breast cancer in men is generally considered extremely rare. Generally, only one man in every 100,000 is affected by this disease. Let’s explain how breast cancer develops in men.
How does breast cancer occur in men?
According to doctors, breast cancer is not just a female disease. Every human being has a small amount of breast tissue from birth, and this tissue can sometimes grow abnormally. According to the Mayo Clinic, breast cancer in men typically begins with changes in the cells of the breast tissue. These cancer cells grow slowly and, over time, form a lump or tumor.
Which men are at higher risk?
According to health experts, this disease is most commonly seen in men between the ages of 60 and 70, but it can occur at any age. According to the CDC and Mayo Clinic, certain factors increase the risk. These include advancing age, hormonal imbalances or estrogen therapy, a family history of breast cancer, Klinefelter syndrome, in which men have an extra copy of the X chromosome, liver diseases such as cirrhosis, obesity, which increases estrogen levels in the body, and testicular diseases or surgery.
Symptoms Not to Ignore: According to experts, the early symptoms of breast cancer in men are often mild and may go unnoticed. common symptoms include swelling on the chest. Redness, or discoloration, discharge of fluid or blood from the nipple, and swelling around the armpit or collarbone. If any of these symptoms, you should consult a doctor immediately.
What is prevention?
It’s not possible to completely prevent this disease, but some precautions can reduce the risk. According to doctors, if there’s a family history of breast cancer, genetic testing should be done. Additionally, maintaining weight control, limiting alcohol consumption, and performing regular self-examinations are essential.
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