Monday, October 17, 2011

Health Tips for October 17

Health Tip: Understanding Breast Cancer in Men

While breast cancer may be most common in women, it can also affect men.

The National Cancer Institute mentions these common risk factors for male breast cancer:

  • Being aged 60 to 70.
  • Having been exposed to radiation.
  • Being diagnosed with a condition that raises estrogen levels, such as liver disease (cirrhosis).
  • Having a family history of breast cancer, especially cases caused by a gene (BRCA2) mutation.

Health Tip: Osteoporosis Can Affect Men, Too

Although osteoporosis is more common in postmenopausal women, men are also vulnerable to thinning bones as they age.

The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons says risk factors for osteoporosis in men include:

  • Drinking excessive amounts of alcohol or using tobacco.
  • Not exercising regularly.
  • Having a low body-mass index.
  • Getting insufficient vitamin D and calcium.
  • Taking certain medications, including anticonvulsants, oral glucocorticoids or heparin.
  • Getting older.
  • Having a family history of fractures related to fragile bones.
  • Certain health conditions, including asthma, thyroid disorders or rheumatoid arthritis.
  • Having low levels of certain hormones, including testosterone or estrogen.

No comments: