Much attention is given to breast cancer in women - and so it should. Men also can contract the disease.
Everyone knows that breast cancer is a big problem for women. Did you know that many men suffer in silence with the disease? This being the case, it is important for men to know the signs of breast cancer. Any time these signs are detected, men should see a doctor. Early detection is just as important for men as it is for women. The earlier the cancer is picked up, the quicker treatment can begin. This increases the odds of surviving.
If men notice a new lump in one breast, a thorough check of both breasts should be done. This is very easy to do. Lie on your back. Raise your right hand over the head. With the pad of two or three fingers of the left hand, thoroughly check the right armpit area for lumps or anything abnormal. Do the same with the breast, making sure you check across to the chest bone and up to the collar bone. Repeat this process with the left hand over the head. You can also do a check while standing up in the shower or while getting dressed. With the pad of two or three fingers move your hand gently over every part of each breast. Check for lumps, knots or thickening. Use right hand for left breast, left hand for right breast. If you feel anything abnormal, get to the doctor as soon as possible. These lumps may not be cancer, but they may be something else that your doctor may want to look into. Never take any lumps lightly. The chances of getting rid of breast cancer are higher when it is diagnosed early.
See a doctor if you find a lump. Only a doctor can check to see if there are any issues with breast cancer. Early screening is important. Even if you do not think the lump is cancer, you should see your doctor.
Finally, a doctor may recommend that you have a mammogram. This is an x-ray of both breasts. It will show any lumps that are present. This can help the doctor to determine the likelihood of it being cancer. If the lump shows up on a mammogram, a biopsy will be taken. Tests will be performed on the tissue that was taken. This is the final determination on whether or not the lump is cancer or not.
