Stop! Think about that statistic.

Men Get Breast Cancer

Of the 230 men diagnosed with breast cancer 55 will die from a type of cancer that is treatable if detected early. There is so much information about female breast cancer, the early detection, the self-detection and the support women require if they undergo treatment. How many men are encouraged to do the same?

Screening

Although male breast cancer is rare as less than 1 percent of all breast cancers occur in men, the medical industry should provide information to men on the occurrence of breast cancer and the benefit of early detection. It is the same with female breast cancer, as early detection is said to be key to the treatment success. Screening should be included in the recommendations to men who undergo prostate checks.

Early signs of breast cancer include fatigue that does not get better with rest. As your body fights the disease you will experience unrelenting weariness. Unexplained weight loss is another factor that should be discussed with your doctor as a possible warning sign of cancer. Then the occurrence of a painless lump should send you straight to the doctor for further tests.

Risks

A history of breast cancer in the family may increase the risk of breast cancer for both men and women. The most common symptom of breast cancer in men is a painless lump near or under the nipple. So, it is important for men to know what is normal for their breasts and to report changes to their doctor.

Men vs. Women

Male breast cancer does occur less frequently than female breast cancer which sees 1 in 8 Canadian women diagnosed with breast cancer. Male breast cancer typically occurs later than woman around 65 years. As men generally report symptoms late the stage of the cancer is more advanced.The 5-year survival rate for men with breast cancer is 84%.

Breast cancer is the most common cancer in Canadian women. Most cases occur in women over 50 years with a family history of breast cancer.

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month for men and women.