Thursday, October 15, 2009

Male Breast Cancer Self Exam

As you all know this month is Breast Cancer Awareness Month and doing my research sadly a high number of men (including myself) doesn't self exam for breast cancer. Did you know for men only 1 in 1,000 dies from breast cancer.

THIS TELL YOU MEN CAN DIE FROM BREAST CANCER TOO NOT JUST WOMEN....


Which type of men are most at risk?
Over 65
African-American
Those exposed to radiation therapy
Those with family history of breast cancer


All of us men are at risk and should start doing breast self exams.By doing this we can check for unusual lumps beneath the nipple. Now if you find a unusual lump then you may want to contact your Doctor.

Breast self-examination is one of the most important tools you have for early detection of breast cancer. Early detection and treatment of any cancer is the key to saving your life. Consider doing a monthly self-exam and mark the date in your calendar. Below is the steps on doing a self exam:

1.Start in Your Bath or Shower
Run a warm shower or bath. Use soap or bath gel to create a soapy, slippery layer over your breast area. Well-soaped skin will be easier to examine, as it allows your fingers to slide along your skin without rubbing.

2.Check Your Breast Texture
Raise your left arm over your head, and if possible, put your left hand on the back of your head. On your right hand, put your index finger, middle finger, and ring finger together as a group. You will use these three fingers to check your left breast. Check the texture of your left breast by starting at the outer edge. Place your three fingers flat onto your skin, press down and move in small circles. Repeat this all around your breast. Don't rush.

3.Check Your Nipple
Check your nipple by gently squeezing it between your index and ring fingers. Look for any discharge, puckering, or retraction (pulling inward).

4.Check Both Sides
Reverse your hands and check your right breast, using the same methods as Steps 3 and 4. Both breasts must be checked.

5.Visual Examination
Rinse yourself off and dry with a towel. Stand before a mirror which is large enough for you to see both breasts. Take note of any asymmetry and skin changes (rash, puckers, dimples).

6.How to Handle a Lump
Remember that most lumps in male breasts are due to gynecomastia, which is a benign condition. In addition, 80% of all breast lumps are not cancerous. But if you do feel any change in your breasts that causes concern, see your doctor for a clinical breast exam.

For more info go to:

breastcancer.org

Also join the Global Breast Cancer Movement at Susan G. Komen for the cure

1 comment:

  1. Male breast reduction also known as gynecomastia, breast reduction for men is the surgical correction of over-developed or enlarged b

    ReplyDelete