Marty Lobdell Contributing Writer
Since it is National Breast Cancer Month, here is yet another article, but please read on. There are many sources that discuss breast cancer in women and how to do breast self-exams. Keep in mind that family history can be a strong risk factor.
What is often omitted is material on men with breast cancer. Yes, although a small percentage, men get breast cancer.
The same self-exam procedure should be done by men every month or so. The second piece of info that is often omitted is that there is a less common form of breast cancer (inflammatory breast cancer) that initially looks like a bug bite or chaffing. Now before going into a panic, if you find something suspicious, ask yourself: could it be a bite, could it be chaffing? Either of the above should clear-up fairly quick, when it doesn’t, call your doctor or go to a clinic.
Women are often concerned that their partners will find them unattractive if they have a mastectomy. This is understandable given the significance of breasts in our society. Nonetheless, studies show that partners are usually fine with a woman who has lost one or both breasts to cancer. They often comment that they love the woman and not her breasts. I imagine Brad Pitt would weigh in favorably on this issue.
Both men and women can develop cancers of the gonads. Ovarian cancer is especially nasty because it shows little symptoms until it has already spread. Menstrual cycles that are suddenly out of the ordinal should be checked out. Keep in mind there are many things that can upset a woman’s monthly cycle. Ovarian cancer is one of the least likely.
Men need to be educated that they are at risk for testicular cancer. Once again, not terribly common but quite deadly if it spreads. The most likely time for testicular cancer is the late teens and twenties but it can occur in men of any age. A monthly testicular exam should be performed by all men. To do this, gently feel the outer surface of each testicle through the scrotum. Bumps, or divots (usually small, BB size) or tender spots should be noted. If you find something that feels odd on one testicle check its mirror image partner. The chances of both testicles with cancer is extremely small. Be aware there is a raised ridge, the epididymis on each testis.
Both men and women need to be aware of cancer due to the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV). The HPV viruses are associated with warts. Some of the over 100 HPV viruses are associated with cervical cancer and cancer of the throat. Genital warts are extremely common in sexually active people. Warts may be present that are not visible. Both men and women who perform oral sex could be at risk for cancer of the throat. This is why physicians recommend HPV vaccines for both men and women.
And last, the most common form of cancer: skin cancer. Although not part of the sexual system, most people find certain skin to be sexy. Unfortunately, this often means having a nice tan. Young people need to protect their skin because most skin damage occurs long before it shows up. Tanning parlors tell customers that they use the “safe” ultra violet light. Unfortunately, they are misleading the customer, tanning the skin is damaging the skin.
Skin cancer is so common now that it is no longer listed as the major form of cancer; how weird. Use sunblock, wear protective clothing and stay in the shade and you will have younger looking skin and a much lower risk of skin cancer.
