Breast cancer in men is rare but fatal: Expert
abu dhabi — Breast cancer in men is rare but it tends to be very aggressive with higher mortality rate than women, a medical expert has said during the final day of Pink Caravan Ride in Abu Dhabi.
Dr Rehab Mohammed from Kuwait Hospital Sharjah, who led examination in Pink Caravan Mobile Medical Clinic at Louvre Museum Abu Dhabi, said men suffer due to lack of awareness.
“We have diagnosed so many cases among men. Problem is that they don’t even do self-examination. Even if they see a lump, skin lesion or change in colour of skin, they will never take it seriously. When diagnosed with breast cancer, most men are shocked as they believe it can happen to women,” Rehab told Khaleej Times.
She noted that breast cancer cases among men can turn dangerous, especially as it is detected in advanced stages. “Most of them are diagnosed during late stages. In some cases, the cancer will spread to other parts of the body like lungs, kidney and prove to be fatal. Breast cancer becomes very aggressive in men due to delay in treatment,” she said.
Rehab is associated with Pink Caravan Ride for three years now and is happy that the campaign is creating awareness about the need for clinical examinations and importance of early detection of the disease. “This year we have seen increased participation from men. This shows they are becoming aware. Also when we examine a wife, we tell her husband to do examination. Men can at least do self-examination. Early detection is the key,” she reiterated.
Even though the campaign ends, permanent clinics continue to offer services across seven emirates on Saturday.