Male breast cancer

As a bodybuilder, you're typically more aware of your chest than most men. If you've ever taken prohormone supplements, you may also be more aware of your nipples than most men, since some prohormones can lead to gynecomastia--a condition where your nipples swell as a result of growing breast tissue. But as aware of your chest as you may be, did you know that men can get breast cancer? Every year in the United States, approximately 1,000 men develop carcinoma of the breast. While the average age at diagnosis is about 65 years, the problem can occur in younger men, too.

A recent study on male breast cancer was performed at Anderson Cancer Center in Houston. Using a National Cancer Institute database, the researchers identified more than 2,500 men who had the disease from 1973-1998. They also discovered that male breast-cancer rates went up from 0.86 cases per 100,000 Americans to 1.08 cases per 100,000 during the study period. The group concluded that this was a significant increase, though they're uncertain why it occurred.

Just as the causes of female breast cancer are still elusive, so are the precise causes of male breast cancer. Men have glandular breast tissue that is subject to hormonal influences; excess estrogen--especially around the time of puberty--and testosterone deficiency have been identified as possible factors. Men who work in steel mills, blast furnaces, rolling mills or other environments of intense heat have also been shown to have a slightly higher incidence of breast cancer. Genetic factors may play a role as well.

If you've noticed a change in your nipples, see "Read the Signs" for information on symptoms to watch for.

RELATED ARTICLE: READ THE SIGNS

HERE ARE SOME SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS OF MALE BREAST CANCER:

* The most common symptom is a breast mass under the nipple.

* This mass usually is firm and not tender.

* The average tumor size is approximately 1 inch.

* Because of the short distance to the nipple, nipple retraction, ulceration or destruction are also common.

* Nipple discharge (bloody or serous) is distinctly abnormal in men and must be fully investigated.

* A prolonged rash or irritation of the nipple may indicate a special kind of breast cancer called Paget's disease, which specifically affects the nipple.

* Biopsy is required to make a proper diagnosis.

BY JIM STOPPANI, PHD