KNOW THE DEADLY DISEASE : BREAST CANCER IN MEN
Breast Cancer In Men (courtesy : www.breasthealth.com.au)
Breast cancer is an evil tumor, whose growth begins from cells of the breast. It is a group of cancer cells that spread the infection to the surrounding tissues, and distant areas of the body. It is quite rare in men. According to the latest statistics, it accounts for only about 1% of all breast cancers. This is found in the age group of 50 - 70 years. Breast cancer is found to be 100 times more common in women.
Causes of Breast Cancer in Men
Similar to the female breast cancer, the reason of its happening has not been fully known, but it might be affected by both the environmental influences and genetic (inherited) factors. The following risk factors for the development of male breast cancer have been identified:
Radiation exposure
Hyperestrogenism
Klinefelter’s syndrome
Cirrhosis (scarring) of the liver
Familial predisposition
Types of Breast Cancer in Men
There are different types of breast cancer that can affect men, just like women. Most common is called Invasive Ductal Carcinoma, that is also found in women. Other, rarer, types are inflammatory breast cancer, Paget’s disease of the breast and a pre-cancerous condition known as ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS).
Symptoms of Breast Cancer in Men
The following are the most common symptoms of breast cancer observed in men. But, still, it is quite possible that each may experience symptoms differently.
breast lumps
nipple inversion
nipple discharge (sometimes bloody)
a pain or pulling sensation in the breast
These symptoms can resemble with other conditions or medical problems. You must always consult your physician for a diagnosis.
Diagnosing Breast Cancer in Men
The doctor performs a physical examination of the affected breast, and then following tests are done to confirm, and find its spread:
Mammogram
Ultrasound scan
Needle aspiration
Needle biopsy
Blood test
Treating Breast Cancers in Men
The treatment depends upon the type and stage of the breast cancer, one of the following can be used:
Surgery: Modified radical mastectomy removes the breast, lining over chest muscles and part of chest wall muscles.
Radiation therapy: Uses high-energy rays that avoid growth and division of the cancer cells.
Chemotherapy: Treated with anticancer drugs.
Hormone therapy: Performed if the breast cancer cells have estrogen or progesterone receptors.
