October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month and this year is the 25th Anniversary of the organization that is dedicated to awareness, empowerment, and education on this condition that doesn't only affect women.
Although men make up less than 1 percent of all cases of breast cancer, it is just as important that they pay attention to bodily changes.
Typical symptoms are the same as for women:
- A lump or swelling in the chest area
- Dimpled or puckered skin
- A nipple that is inverted (facing inward)
- Redness or scaling of the nipple or breast skin
- Discharge from the nipple
Both men and women can develop lumps in the breast that are non-cancerous. But it is incredibly important for anyone with changes in the tissue in and around the breast to seek medical advice. Only a medical professional can determine whether those changes are benign or something that need further attention.
If you are female, I hope that you perform monthly exams. It is your first line of defense.
If you are male, please realize that you are not immune to breast cancer. If you notice changes in your body, tell your doctor.
Breast cancer is treatable - the earlier it's caught, the better the hope for a full recovery.
