While breast cancer is most commonly though of as a cancer for women, it can also be found in men and can be just as devastating for men. It is important to know and understand the symptoms because early detection is vital.
Significance
Breast cancer can be a deadly disease. While women are more likely to develop breast cancer, it does occur in men and can be just as deadly. It is important for men to understand this fact and to not feel less of a man because they have breast cancer.
Identification
Regular self-examinations to detect any abnormalities is important for men and women. There are symptoms to look for that may someday save a life.
Abnormal Lumps
The most easily detected symptom of breast cancer in men is abnormal lumps in the chest. While these lumps are most commonly found in the breast itself, it is important to know that when doing a self-examination, it is necessary to examine the entire chest region as lumps can also be found in the surrounding chest muscles.
Visual Symptoms
One of the most obvious signs of breast cancer in men are visual. Any visible abnormalities of the skin such as inverted nipples that were previously normal and puckering of the skin. Any of these signs should be treated as potential signs of a greater problem. If these symptoms are discovered, they should be pointed out to your family doctor immediately.
Color Changes
Another symptom that men should look for is any color change in the chest area. Redness or swelling can be signs of cancer and should be brought to the attention of a doctor. It is important for a man to seek treatment and not delay, thinking the redness is just a rash that will go away on its own.
Discharge
An obvious sign that something is wrong is any discharge from the nipple. Most men understand that discharge is not normal and there is an underlying cause that can be serious, including the chance of cancer.
Conclusion
Many men are reluctant to seek treatment for these abnormalities because they feel that a problem with the breast is unmanly. Or, they don't know that men can have breast cancer. These misconceptions should be overcome through education as breast cancer is preventable if detected early enough.
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