Men are simply unaware of the symptoms of breast cancer or those who suspect it, feel awkward to seek help, according to an expert on cancer, Professor Ian Fentiman.
The Prof says that in the UK alone, the yearly statistics show that about 250 men test positive for cancer and nearly 70 succumb to it. This is also because nearly half of the patients go undiagnosed till the cancer has advanced to an irrevocable stage.Men should watch out for a painless lump in the chest or an inwardly turned nipple. Which are perhaps tell tale symptoms of the onset of cancer, though symptoms of gynaecomastia , also shows up as a swelling under the nipple, albeit harmless.
Professor Fentiman said: "If diagnosed early enough, a man with breast cancer has between 75% - 100% chance of making a full recovery, but this can drop to as low as 30% for men with very advanced disease." On an average, it takes men abut 16monhts to approach a GP, after detecting a lump. This means that when they actually get to the hospital, their cancer is pretty advanced bring down their chances of survival.
With treatment standards being very effective for male breast cancer as well, it makes it imperative to commence treatment early enough for it to be successful. According to widespread opinion, there was not enough information and support available to men, and needs to be addressed at the national level.
