How Common Is Breast Cancer in Men? |
Male breast cancer is relatively rare in the United States. Annually less than 2% of the male population is diagnosed with breast cancer. This low statistic often leads men to ignore the standard symptom, a lump or thickening in the breast. Doctors do not look for breast cancer in males as methodically as they do in females. This stereotyping has led to men being in advanced stages before finally being diagnosed.
Women are encouraged to have mammograms as a preventative measure. Baselines are suggested for females around age 40, and semi-annually after that. Females with a history of breast cancer may begin having diagnostic mammograms at an earlier age and then have an annual examination and mammogram. Men are not encouraged to have mammograms unless it is suspected that they already have the disease. By then the mammogram is simply a means of staging the cancer and not a preventative measure.
So am I suggesting that all men be given a mammogram at their next physical exam? That may depend on their family history. If a close family member has had breast or colon cancer, then I feel that a mammogram may be warranted.
| Main | How Common Is It? | Symptoms | Risk Factors | Prognosis | Stages |
M.Johnson - 2002
Email Me
My Home Page
