Health Tip of the Week, sponsored by Baton Rouge General: Breast cancer in men—rare but on the rise

When you think of breast cancer you probably think of it as a women’s disease, but men can develop breast cancer—nearly 2,500 new cases are reported each year in men. Men also face a 25 percent higher mortality rate than women and are more likely to die within five years of diagnosis. Men are more likely to have the disease spread into the lymph nodes, which requires more aggressive treatment. It’s critical for both men and health care providers to stress the importance of prevention measures. If you notice a change in your breast area—a lump, soreness, redness or swelling of the tissue—don’t put off talking to your doctor.

Learn more about breast cancer in men