When we hear "breast cancer" we most often think of this as a disease women deal with. However, it also affects men.
While one man was out for a run, he thought maybe his shirt was chaffing his chest from the friction. As Mike Selsman looked closer, he discovered a lump, but dismissed it as irritation he thought would go away.
It didn't.
The lump grew and Mike began his own research on breast cancer in men. Men do have a small amount of breast tissue, which means they can still get breast cancer like women do. According to WebMD, breast cancer is rare in men under 35 years old, but the risk goes up with age with most male victims getting it in their 60s or 70s.
His diagnosis? He had breast cancer
After doing his own research, Mike went to the doctor and got an official diagnosis, CBS news reports.
"He didnt share with me that it might be breast cancer," his wife, Kara recalls. "When he went to the doctor and came back and said theyre sending me right for a biopsy, it was shocking."
Then the couple found out that not only did he have this cancer, but the cancer had already spread to Mike's brain.
...But Mike's cancer wasn't their only concern
As they were dealing with this devastating news, Kara found out she also had breast cancer, reports Little Things.
The couple fought their cancer battles together, undergoing treatment and beating it together. They now work to spread awareness of breast cancer in women and men. Together, the Selsmans are working to let everyone know breast cancer screenings should happen for both genders, says CBS news.
Early detection is key
According to National Breast Cancer Foundation, Inc., women should perform a self-exam once a month. 40% of diagnosed breast cancer has been caught during a self-exam.
Being familiar with your own breasts is key because you'll more easily notice any changes. You can do exams in the shower, standing in front of a mirror or while lying down.
Similarly, men need to pay attention to any lump they may find in their breasts. Some men may be tempted to wait for it to grow before seeking treatment, often due to embarrassment. The American Cancer Society states, "Careful breast exams might be useful for screening men with a strong family history of breast cancer."
Whether you're male or female, pay attention to physical changes to your breasts and body. Don't put off going to the doctor because of fear or embarrassment. Catching cancer early can make all the difference in beating this disease. When in doubt, check it out! Make sure you schedule regular appointments with your doctor pertaining to your health.
While one man was out for a run, he thought maybe his shirt was chaffing his chest from the friction. As Mike Selsman looked closer, he discovered a lump, but dismissed it as irritation he thought would go away.
It didn't.
The lump grew and Mike began his own research on breast cancer in men. Men do have a small amount of breast tissue, which means they can still get breast cancer like women do. According to WebMD, breast cancer is rare in men under 35 years old, but the risk goes up with age with most male victims getting it in their 60s or 70s.
His diagnosis? He had breast cancer
After doing his own research, Mike went to the doctor and got an official diagnosis, CBS news reports.
"He didnt share with me that it might be breast cancer," his wife, Kara recalls. "When he went to the doctor and came back and said theyre sending me right for a biopsy, it was shocking."
Then the couple found out that not only did he have this cancer, but the cancer had already spread to Mike's brain.
...But Mike's cancer wasn't their only concern
As they were dealing with this devastating news, Kara found out she also had breast cancer, reports Little Things.
The couple fought their cancer battles together, undergoing treatment and beating it together. They now work to spread awareness of breast cancer in women and men. Together, the Selsmans are working to let everyone know breast cancer screenings should happen for both genders, says CBS news.
Early detection is key
According to National Breast Cancer Foundation, Inc., women should perform a self-exam once a month. 40% of diagnosed breast cancer has been caught during a self-exam.
Being familiar with your own breasts is key because you'll more easily notice any changes. You can do exams in the shower, standing in front of a mirror or while lying down.
Similarly, men need to pay attention to any lump they may find in their breasts. Some men may be tempted to wait for it to grow before seeking treatment, often due to embarrassment. The American Cancer Society states, "Careful breast exams might be useful for screening men with a strong family history of breast cancer."
Whether you're male or female, pay attention to physical changes to your breasts and body. Don't put off going to the doctor because of fear or embarrassment. Catching cancer early can make all the difference in beating this disease. When in doubt, check it out! Make sure you schedule regular appointments with your doctor pertaining to your health.
